Skin cancer arises when skin cells grow out of control, due to DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is one of the most common cancers, yet highly treatable, especially when detected early. Early identification and treatment improve recovery chances. Delaying treatment allows the cancer to progress, leading to more complex and severe health complications.
How Basal Cell Carcinoma Advances
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, originating from basal cells in the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer. It is the least aggressive form of skin cancer. Untreated BCC progresses slowly, gradually invading surrounding tissues.
This local invasion can cause damage, leading to persistent sores, ulceration, and bleeding. As the tumor expands, it may become a visible, raised growth with a thickened border and visible blood vessels. In severe cases, untreated BCC can destroy healthy structures like muscles, nerves, and even bone, resulting in disfigurement and functional impairment. While metastasis to distant parts of the body is extremely rare with BCC, the local destruction it causes can be extensive and complex to treat if neglected.
How Squamous Cell Carcinoma Advances
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer, developing in the squamous cells of the outer skin layers. Untreated SCC is more aggressive than BCC and can grow more rapidly. It appears as persistent scaly patches, open sores that fail to heal, or raised growths that may bleed.
SCC can invade deeper into surrounding tissues and has a higher potential for regional spread compared to BCC. The cancer cells can break away and spread to nearby lymph nodes, which are the first site of metastasis. This regional spread increases the risk of local tissue destruction, making treatment more challenging and potentially requiring more extensive surgery. Untreated SCC can become life-threatening.
How Melanoma Advances
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer due to its potential for rapid and aggressive spread. It originates in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. Untreated melanoma can quickly invade deeper skin layers, gaining access to the lymphatic system and bloodstream.
This allows cancer cells to travel and establish new tumors in distant parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. Common sites for melanoma to metastasize include regional lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and bones. The life-threatening nature of melanoma increases once it has spread beyond the initial site, making early detection and immediate treatment important.
Systemic Effects and Organ Involvement
Once skin cancer has spread beyond the original site, it can lead to various systemic effects and organ involvement. When cancer metastasizes to distant organs, the symptoms experienced depend on the specific organs affected. For instance, if melanoma spreads to the lungs, individuals may experience a persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Metastasis to the liver can cause symptoms such as loss of appetite, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or abdominal swelling. Brain metastases may lead to headaches, seizures, or neurological symptoms like weakness or numbness in limbs. Bone involvement can result in bone pain, weakened bones, or even fractures. Beyond specific organ-related symptoms, advanced systemic skin cancer causes a general decline in health, including severe fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and a reduced quality of life. Ultimately, untreated advanced skin cancer can be fatal.