Skin cancer and aging

Skin cancer

Mutations in skin cell DNA

Nonmelanoma cancers less likely to metastasize

Melanoma cancers more dangerous

Basal cell carcinoma

Most common skin cancer. Caused by UV radiation. Type of nonmelanoma cancer

Can appear as sores that don’t heal, a recurring red patch, smooth circular growth with raised edge, shiny bump, or pale mark

95% patients are cured by removal

Squamous cell carcinoma

Type of nonmelanoma cancer, and is 5 times less likely than basal cell carcinoma, but is more likely to spread

~1% result in death

Caused by UV radiation Open

Same symptoms as basal cell carcinoma, but includes warts or scaly growths that scab and bleed

Melanoma

More likely to be malignant

Starts in melanocytes and looks like an unusual mole

Looks asymmetric with irregular boarders, uneven color, and diameter > 6mm

Most common in fair skin

Aging characteristics

Decreased skin cell functions and mitosis

Less collagen and elastic fiber

Elastic fibers become less elastic and more disorganized and thick

Skin loosens and thins due to less adipose tissue, fibers, blood, and flattened dermal papillae creating wrinkles

Less melanocytes, hair follicles and sweat glands, sebaceous glands

Effects of aging

Wrinkles

Decreased temperature regulation

Decreased protection from UV and vitamin D production