Introduction to skin cancers

Question 1

What are the 3 main forms of skin cancer?

Answer 1

Melanoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

Question 2

From which cells does melanoma arise?

Answer 2

Melanocytes

Question 3

From which cells does BCC arise?

Answer 3

Basal cells in the basal layer of the skin

Question 4

From which cells does SCC arise?

Answer 4

Supra-basal keratinocytes in the epidermis

Question 5

What are some important questions to ask when taking a skin lesion history?

Answer 5

• How long?
• Any changes?
• Symptoms
• Risk factor assessment
• PMHx, DHx, Allergies

Question 6

What are some risk factors for skin cancers to ask about in a history?

Answer 6

Sun exposure
Personal history
Family history
Immunosuppression
Smoking (SCC of the mouth)

Question 7

What level of sun exposure will usually predispose to BCC and melanoma?

Answer 7

Intense, intermittent sun exposure

Question 8

What level of sun exposure will usually predispose to SCC and it’s precursors?

Answer 8

Chronic, cumulative sun exposure

Question 9

What are some ways of inquiring about sun expiosure?

Answer 9

Travel
Occupation
Leisure activitties
Sunbed use
Skin type
Suncream use
History of sunburn