Skin Cancer Types and ABCDE Criteria (Video Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering the three major skin cancers (basal cell, squamous cell, melanoma), the ABCDE criteria for melanoma, risk factors (UV exposure, tanning beds, ozone layer), metastasis, diagnostic and treatment concepts (biopsy, staging, surgery, laser, curettage, radiation, chemotherapy), and the importance of early detection.

Basal cell carcinoma

A skin cancer that is usually small and dome-shaped, grows slowly and deeply, often in older individuals; typically treated by biopsy and surgical removal; metastasis is rare.

Squamous cell carcinoma

A skin cancer linked to UV exposure; risk increases with age; can invade deeper tissues and metastasize; treatment depends on stage and may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Melanoma

A skin cancer arising from pigment-producing melanocytes; higher risk in Caucasians and older adults; characterized by ABCDE features and can spread via blood or lymph; early detection is critical.

ABCDE criteria

A set of signs used to evaluate moles for melanoma: A=Asymmetry, B=Border irregularity, C=Color variation, D=Diameter ≥6 mm, E=Evolution (change).

Ultraviolet exposure

UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds; major risk factor for basal cell, squamous cell, and melanoma; exposure increases with age.

Tanning beds

Artificial UV sources; use increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma.

Ozone layer

Depletion or thinning of the ozone layer can lead to increased UV exposure and higher skin cancer risk.

Metastasis

Spread of cancer from the skin to other parts of the body via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Biopsy

A diagnostic procedure to remove tissue for histological analysis to confirm skin cancer type and stage.

Staging

Determining the extent or spread of cancer to guide treatment decisions.

Surgery (excision)

Surgical removal of the tumor with clear margins; may be followed by monitoring or additional therapy depending on margins.

Laser therapy

Use of laser to ablate or remove skin cancer lesions.

Curettage and electrodesiccation

Scraping away the lesion with a curette and destroying the base with electric current.

Radiation therapy

High-energy radiation used to kill cancer cells; employed in certain stages or locations of skin cancer.

Chemotherapy

Systemic anti-cancer drugs used in some cases depending on the stage and spread of skin cancer.

Early detection

Detecting skin cancer early—through self-checks and annual dermatologist visits—improves prognosis and outcomes.