Cancer Development
Cancer of any form is the result of genetic mutations that occur in previously normal cells. It takes many different genetic mutations to turn a normal cell into a cancerous cell. These genetic changes may occur as a result of mutations that can naturally accumulate in the DNA over time, or it can be the result of outside forces (such as ultraviolet radiation). Genetic mutations can cause cells to grow and reproduce more rapidly, which is one of the key characteristics of cancer cells. Other genetic mutations can cause the cells not to respond to biological signals to stop growing.
Sources of Damage
As the National Cancer Institute explains, DNA damage to skin cells can occur from a variety of sources. Ultraviolet (UV) light, for example, can cause changes within the DNA of skin cells and lead to genetic mutations. People who live in areas where UV radiation is high have a greater risk of developing skin cancer. Skin damage from scars and burns can also lead to DNA damage in skin cells. Certain kinds of viral infections (such as the human papillomavirus, or HPV) can also cause DNA changes that lead to skin cancer. In addition, chronic skin inflammation can cause cellular changes that lead to skin cancer.
Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer can be caused by many kinds of cells. As the Human Genome Research Institute explains, when skin cancer occurs in the outermost layer of skin, it is called squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma is caused by cancerous cells developing just below the outermost skin layer. This kind of cancer tends to grow and spread more slowly than squamous cell carcinomas but is still dangerous. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and is a result of genetic mutations in the melanocytes, which are pigment-producing cells in the skin.
