Skin cancer

Skin cancer is a group of malignant tumors arising from skin cells. Its major forms include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.

Melanoma: A malignant tumor of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin and other tissues. It is the skin cancer most likely to spread and cause death.
Ultraviolet radiation: Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible light, including UVA and UVB. UV exposure damages skin-cell DNA and drives many skin cancers.
Sunscreen: A topical product that reduces the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching the skin. Regular broad-spectrum use helps reduce UV-related skin cancer risk.
Sunburn: An inflammatory skin reaction caused mainly by excessive ultraviolet radiation exposure. Severe or repeated sunburns are associated with increased melanoma risk.
Cancer staging: Classification of cancer extent based on tumor features, regional spread, and distant metastases. Stage strongly influences prognosis and treatment, particularly for melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma: A common skin cancer arising from cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. It is the most common form and rarely spreads to distant organs.
DNA damage: Alterations to DNA that can interfere with accurate replication or gene function. Accumulated DNA damage can disable growth controls in skin cells.
Dermoscopy: A skin examination technique using magnification and illumination to reveal subsurface features. It helps clinicians assess suspicious pigmented lesions before biopsy.
Tanning bed: A device that exposes skin to ultraviolet radiation to produce an artificial tan. Artificial UV exposure adds a preventable source of skin cancer risk.
Melanoma in situ: Melanoma confined to the epidermis without invasion into deeper skin layers. Detection at this stage allows treatment before invasive spread.

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