KayaKalp
75 Herrick Street
Parkhurst Building, Suite 105
Beverly, Massachusetts, 01915
Ph. 978.927.6556
Fx. 978.927.9467
Basal cell carcinoma may come in many forms. It often begins as a small, pearly nodule.
Squamous cell carcinoma may begin as a red, scaly patch, a group of crusted nodules, or a sore that doesn't heal.
Malignant melanoma is often asymmetrical, with blurred or ragged edges and mottled colors.
Small skin cancers can often be excised quickly and easily in the physician's office.
Simple excision usually leaves a thin barely visible scar.
A bone/soft tissue flap is used to reconstruct the nose following skin cancer excision.
Skin Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, Skin cancer is becoming one of the most common forms of cancer. Approximately one million cases of skin cancer were diagnosed in 1998. Melanoma, the most serious form was diagnosed in about 41,600 people. An estimated 9,200 died from skin cancer in 1999.
These frightening facts may mean that you are you at risk
People with 50 or more moles are three times more likely to develop melanoma as those with 25. Be sure to visit a doctor regularly for a preventative skin cancer check.
As with any type of cancer, early detection is a key to survival. The American Cancer Society recommends the "ABCD RULE" as clues to early detection, keeping in mind that non-melanoma skin cancers often take the form of a pale, wax-like, pearly nodule, or a red, scaly, sharply outlined patch.
- Asymmetry: one half of the mole does not match the other half.
- Border Irregularity: the edges of the mole are ragged, notched or blurred.
- Color: the color of the mole is not uniform. Shades of tan, brown and black are present.
- Diameter: the mole is wider than 6mm or 1/4 inch. Any changes in size should be of concern.
Given that UV Radiation is a known Carcinogen a comprehensive sun protection program should include:
- Avoiding outdoor activities between and 4pm when the sun's rays are strongest
- Seeking shade whenever possible
- Cover all exposed areas with a broad spectrum sunscreen of minimum SPF15
- Use sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are the most powerful agents for blocking out ultraviolet rays.
- Reapply every 2 hours
- Apply Vitamin C with your Sunscreen increasing its effectiveness.
- Select tightly woven, light colored clothing that is loose fitting.
- Better still wear Sun protection clothing
- Wear a wide brimmed hat.
There are a number of reasons why some people are more susceptible to damage from the sun and typically those having :
- Fair skin
- Having multiple or atypical moles
- Freckles and burn before tanning
- Family history of Cancer
- Sustained severe sunburn as a child
- Been treated for cancer in the past
- Taking certain medications - consult Doctor or Pharmacist