Mole Screening London and Beaconsfield

Fast and reliable examination for Cancerous Moles

Types of Skin Cancer

Skin Cancer

Around 145,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year in the UK. The approximate number of people who develop melanoma (malignant melanoma) each year is 15,000. Around 130,000 people are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer. The incidence rates for both types of skin cancer have been increasing in recent years. Excessive exposure to sun and sunburns, especially during childhood, are the main causes for the development of this disease.

Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer

This term refers to certain types of skin tumours which are usually white to reddish in colour, although they can sometimes be brownish. Besides, they are often rough and scaly on the skin surface or have the shape of a mole. They are primarily caused by sun exposure. The most common types of non-melanoma skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. There are also precancerous lesions called actinic keratoses (also known as solar keratoses) and Bowen‘s disease (non-invasive, squamous cell carcinoma in situ).

Malignant Melanoma

Malignant melanoma is a type of skin tumour caused by cancerous, pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). It develops from pigmented moles, but may also appear very suddenly on skin that has hitherto been completely unremarkable. Malignant melanomas are often dark or black, although they can sometimes be pink (amelanotic melanoma). If a melanoma is detected early, there are good chances of a lasting cure. However, once it has progressed to an advanced stage, the therapeutic possibilities are limited, and the disease may become life-threatening.

That is why preventive healthcare and early detection are of vital importance.

Recognising Signs of Skin Cancer

The ABCDE rule covers changes that might indicate a melanoma. This can help you to self-examine.

Asymmetry – one half of the mole doesn’t match the other;

Border – the edges may be irregular;

Colour – uneven colour;

Diameter – most melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter;

Evolving – when a mole starts to change. Any change – in size, shape, colour, elevation, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching or crusting – can be suspicious.

The poorest prognosis is most often that of nodular melanoma, which can escape the ABCDE rule by being symmetrical, with regular borders and homogeneous colour, and often being only about 6mm in size. That’s why we recommend combining self-examination with dermatologist visits for melanoma prevention and early detection.

If you are worried about moles or lesions, seek medical advice as soon as possible.
You can book a consultation at the Skin Inspection Clinic here

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Melanoma

Types Of Skin Cancer London - Melanoma

Melanoma

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Melanoma

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Basal Cell

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Basal Cell

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Squamous Cell

Types Of Skin Cancer - Squamous cell
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  • Skin Inspection Locations

    Harley Street Clinic
    55 Harley Street 4th Floor, London W1G 8QR
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    The Beaconsfield Clinic
    Little Hall Barn, Windsor End, Beaconsfield HP9 2JW
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