The more you understand about skin cancer terminology, the better your defense will be against this dangerous disease. Your local dermatologist at Heibel Dermatology in Lincoln, NE, emphasizes the importance of skin cancer term familiarization, and they're here with a few skin cancer terms that you should know and understand:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma: Basal cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that often manifests as shiny bumps on flesh that receives a lot of sunlight. They usually turn into pink, brown, or black dome-shaped bumps and may bleed easily. This type of skin cancer rarely spreads and is considered the least dangerous of the main three.

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer among transplant patients and generally includes rough, scaly, red lesions. Spread rate is also low, though not as low as basal cell carcinoma.
• Melanoma: Melanoma is the most serious skin cancer, as it results in abnormal growth of pigment-producing skin cells. Lesions are brown or black in color with irregular borders, symmetry, and coloration. Melanomas are more likely to metastasize than other forms of skin cancer.
• Metastasize: ‘Metastasize’ refers to the spreading of skin cancer from its point of origin to the rest of the body. How far skin cancer spreads depends on the type.
• Localized: ‘Localized’ concerns cancer limited to one area of the body. Localized cancer has not yet spread and is usually very treatable.
• Melanocytes: Melanocytes are skin cells that are responsible for producing a skin pigment called melanin. They may develop into a malignant melanoma.
• Precancerous: A precancerous growth is one that may become cancerous. Many opt to have precancerous growths removed for this reason.

These are just some of the many skin cancer terms to learn about so you may better protect yourself. Discuss these and other terms with your dermatologist, and discuss any other skin treatments you require, such as those for psoriasis or acne scars. Dr. Heibel and his compassionate, helpful staff have served Lincoln and the surrounding area for over 20 years and will diagnose and treat all skin disorders.

For more on treatment for skin cancer, psoriasis, acne scars, and more available through Heibel Dermatology, call (402) 488-6969, or visit the website today.