Skin Cancer: Types and Cell of Origin

Skin Cancer: Types and Cell of Origin.
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Skin Cancer: Types and Cell of Origin.
Skin cancer is a common type in the United States of America, usually occurring when the DNA of skin cells develops a mutation. The mutations grow out of control and form a mass of cancer cells. According to CDC, many skin cancers result from excessive exposure to ultraviolet ( UV) rays from the sun and other artificial sources (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022). Everyone can get skin cancer even though they have a higher risk than others. Individuals with a lighter natural skin color, a family history of skin cancer, blue or green eyes, skin that easily burn from the sun or reddens quickly blonde or red hair, or old age are at a higher risk of contracting skin cancer ( CDC,2022).
There are three types of skin cancer. First, Basal Cell Carcinoma( BCC). BCC forms when the skin is exposed to excess UV radiation. Melanin absorbs UV radiation, indirectly damaging the DNA through immune suppression and reactive oxygen species. Second, squamous cell carcinoma forms in the squamous cells of the skin. These cells form in the middle and outer parts of the skin layer. Further, it is a common type of skin cancer that is not life-threatening but can be aggressive. Third, Melanoma forms in the melanocyte cells that produce melanin. Melanoma poses the highest risk of death. Melanoma can occur in any body part, mainly in the parts exposed to the...