What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells, most often caused by the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.

Scan your skin 

In determining whether a full skin check is indicated, we recommend reviewing this link from the Skin Cancer College of Australasia and completing a brief questionnaire which can guide you as to whether you should have a skin check.

Advanced Skin Imaging for Precise Detection and Monitoring

At Bathurst St Skin Cancer, we utilise the advanced Fotofinder imaging system to capture high-resolution, detailed images of your skin. This state-of-the-art technology allows us to view capillaries, lesions, and cellular structures at remarkable levels of magnification, up to 400x. By providing such precise visualisation, we can assess your skin’s condition with exceptional accuracy, supporting early detection and effective monitoring of skin health.

Fotofinder imaging system

Types of Skin Cancer

Actinic Keratoses (AK)

Appears as a dry, scaly patch.

These spots commonly form on areas with high sun exposure, such as the head, neck, hands, and forearms.

While AKs are not skin cancer, they are precancerous growths that can develop into squamous cell carcinoma (a common type of skin cancer).

Due to this risk, treating AKs is important.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer.

BCCs often present as a round, flesh-coloured growth, a shiny, pearly bump, or a pinkish patch of skin.

This type of cancer usually develops after years of frequent sun exposure or use of tanning beds.

BCCs are commonly found on the head, neck, and arms, but they can also appear on other parts of the body, such as the chest, abdomen, and legs.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as BCCs can grow deeper over time. If left untreated, they may invade nerves and bones, causing damage and disfigurement.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

The second most common skin cancer.

SCC may look like a red, firm bump, a scaly patch, or a sore that heals and reopens.

It generally forms on skin with frequent sun exposure, such as the rim of the ear, face, neck, arms, chest, and back.

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent SCC from growing deeper and spreading to other parts of the body.

Melanoma

Often referred to as “the most serious skin cancer” due to its tendency to spread.

Melanoma can form within an existing mole or appear suddenly as a dark spot that looks different from others on your skin.

Early detection and treatment are critical.

Other Types of Skin Cancer

Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP)
A rare type of skin cancer that begins in the deeper layers of the skin. DFSP usually appears as a slow-growing, firm, or raised area that can be flesh-colored, reddish, or purple. It often develops on the torso, arms, or legs and may be mistaken for a scar or bruise at first. DFSP grows slowly but can become invasive, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma
A rare but aggressive form of skin cancer that starts in the Merkel cells, which are found in the skin and are associated with touch. Merkel cell carcinoma typically appears as a painless, firm, flesh-colored or red nodule on sun-exposed areas, like the face, neck, or arms. This cancer tends to spread quickly, making early detection and treatment very important.

Sebaceous Carcinoma
A rare and aggressive skin cancer that originates in the sebaceous (oil) glands. Sebaceous carcinoma often appears as a painless lump, usually on the eyelid, but it can also form on other parts of the body. It may resemble other benign conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Early intervention is critical to prevent it from spreading to other areas.

Skin Cancers in Childhood

Thankfully the development of skin cancer in childhood is extremely rare and regular population screening is not recommended. It is normal to grow moles in childhood and this continues through the teenage years and into early adulthood. However, we do recommend a spot check review to any skin lesions that your child has that look different to their other moles or are changing, growing rapidly or causing irritation. Our team is always happy to check spots that may be concerning you as a parent or caregiver and provide ongoing recommendations and advice.

Sun protection is important at every stage of life, including infancy. Always protect yourself and your family from the sun, and see a board-certified dermatologist if you have any questions about how to take care of your baby’s skin

To keep your child safe outdoors, dermatologists recommend the following tips:

Keep your baby in the shade.

Keep your baby in the shade. Shade is the best way to shield your baby from the sun, especially if he or she is younger than six months old. Keep your baby in the shade as much as possible, and if you can’t find shade, create your own using an umbrella, canopy or the hood of a stroller.

Dress your baby in sun-protective clothing, such as a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and pants. In addition, make sure your baby always wears a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection.

Minimise sunscreen use on children younger than six months old. However, if shade and adequate clothing are not available, parents and caretakers may apply a minimal amount of broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to their children’s skin. Sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are less likely to irritate a baby’s sensitive skin. Remember to reapply your child’s sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating, as there is no such thing as “waterproof” sunscreen.

Stay safe on hot days. In addition to sun protection, stay safe on hot days by making sure your baby does not get overheated and drinks plenty of fluids. If your baby is fussy, crying excessively or has redness on any exposed skin, take him or her indoors immediately.

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