Skin Cancer (cont.)
Medical Author:
Michael S Lehrer, MD
Medical Editor:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. IN THIS ARTICLE
Skin Cancer CausesUltraviolet (UV) light exposure, most commonly from sunlight, is overwhelmingly the most frequent cause of skin cancer. Other important causes of skin cancer include the following:
The following people are at the greatest risk:
Basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas are more common in older people. Melanomas are more common in younger people. For example, melanoma is the most common cancer in people 25-29 years of age. Must Read Articles Related to Skin Cancer
Common Health Tests
Common health tests may be performed in your doctor's office or even in the pharmacy. Regular health checks and screening for certain diseases and conditions ha...learn more >>
Mole Removal
Moles may be removed using excision and stitches or excision and cauterization. Risks of mole removal include infection, nerve damage, and anesthetic allergy. L...learn more >>
Skin Biopsy
Your doctor may want to obtain a sample of skin in order to diagnose diseases of the skin, such as those caused by bacteria, fungi, or other chronic skin condit...learn more >>
Viewer Comments & ReviewsSkin Cancer - Describe Your ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with skin cancer. Skin cancer - Signs and SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What signs and symptoms did you experience with your skin cancer? |
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Skin Cancer: Melanoma »
Despite recent declines in the incidence and mortality of cancer overall, the incidence of cutaneous melanoma continues to escalate.
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