Shape Magazine
Skin Cancer
Diagnosis
If you have a change on the skin, the doctor must find out whether it is due to cancer or to some other cause. Your doctor will perform a biopsy, removing all or part of the area that does not look normal. The sample goes to a lab where a pathologist checks it under a microscope. A biopsy is the only sure way to diagnose skin cancer.
There are four common types of skin biopsies:
1. Punch biopsy--a sharp, hollow tool is used to remove a circle of tissue from the abnormal area.
2. Incisional biopsy--a scalpel is used to remove part of the growth.
3. Excisional biopsy--a scalpel is used to remove the entire growth and some tissue around it.
4. Shave biopsy--a thin, sharp blade is used to shave off the abnormal growth.
If the biopsy shows that you have cancer, your doctor needs to know the extent (stage) of the disease. In very few cases, the doctor may check your lymph nodes to stage the cancer.
The stage is based on:
* The size of the growth
* How deeply it has grown beneath the top layer of skin
* Whether it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or to other parts of the body
Stages of skin cancer:
* Stage 0: The cancer involves only the top layer of skin. It is carcinoma in situ.
* Stage I: The growth is 2 centimeters wide (three-quarters of an inch) or smaller.
* Stage II: The growth is larger than 2 centimeters wide (three-quarters of an inch).
* Stage III: The cancer has spread below the skin to cartilage, muscle, bone, or to nearby lymph nodes. It has not spread to other places in the body.
* Stage IV: The cancer has spread to other places in the body.
Sometimes all of the cancer is removed during the biopsy. In such cases, no more treatment is needed. If you do need more treatment, your doctor will describe your options.
Related Items
Sunscreen All-Stars
We've found formulas that address everyone's skincare concerns. Practice safe sun by spreading them on before you head out.
The Young Woman's Cancer Guide
Nobody expects to get a life-threatening disease in her 20s or 30s, but it happens. Do you know the signs?
Sun Care
Think those clouds will protect you from sun damage? Think again.
Featured Workout Video
Kettlebell Training
Gain strength, power, and speed with these kettlebell exercises.
More Videos >>
Loading
|
|
|
|
|
|
|