Skin Cancer Flashcards
How do you document skin?
- we include the appearance texture temp turgor color moisture sensation vascularity lesion rashes size location and or distribution
what are the 3 types of skin cancer?
- basal : most common, least serious
- squamous cell skin cancer: usually a sore that itches and doesnt heal. can spread or metasitize if not caught early.
- Melanoma: worst case scenario
Risk factors of skin cancer?
sun light uv radiation
severe and or blistering sun burns
tanning direct sunlight or tamning booths
fam history
fair (pale) skin that burns easily
medical conditions
medications
s/s of skin cancer?
changes in shape color size or feel of an existing mole
skin that is hard or lumpy
surface of skin oozes or bleeds easily and doesnt heal
itchy tender or painful
what does ABCDE mean in skin cancer?
its a method of assessment
A: look for ASYMMETRY in a mole
B: asses for irregular BORDER
C: COLOR or if its changed recently
D: diameter greater than 6mm
E: has there been an evolution in the mole size shape and color
Diagnosis and staging of skin cancer includes?
A biopsy: shave punch incisional excisional
labs and imaging: cbc bmp lft chest cray ct mri pet scan
staging is based on what?
the size of growth how deeply embedded in the layers and whether its been metastasized
What does treatment depend on?
the type and the stage
size and location of tumor
and pt general health and medical history
how many and what are the treatments?
there are 5
excisional
surgery
chemotherapy
radiation
biologic therapy
Prevention and education for skin cancer?
Limit sun exposure
stay away from sun lamps and tanning booths
avoid outdoor activities during hottest part of day
wear long sleeves and pants
wear a hat with wide brim
use sunscreen
regularly check skin