People with fair-skin are at higher risk for skin cancers; however, all skin types are at risk for skin cancer development.

Three layers of skin

1. The epidermis is composed of dead keratinocytes that are continually shed. The living keratinocytes, or squamous cells, produce keratin. Melanocytes in the epidermis produce the protective pigment called melanin.
2. The dermis is thicker than the epidermis and contains nerves, blood vessels, hair follicles and sweat glands.
3. The subcutis, the deepest layer of skin, is made of fat cells and collagen that conserve heat and protect organs from injury.

Two groups of skin cancers

1. Non-melanoma cancers, basal and squamous cell cancers, are the most common skin cancers. Non-melanoma cancers may, but generally do not, spread to other parts of the body. While these cancers may not metastasize, they are very destructive and need to be treated early.
• Treatment options include:
• Electrodessiciation (cell destruction by heat)
• Cryosurgery (cell destruction by freezing)
• Surgery
• Mono micrographic surgery (removal minimizing scar size)
2. Melanoma cancers start in the melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment called melanin. Melanoma tumors appear as brown or black spots. They are less common than non-melanoma cancers, but much more serious. Melanoma cancers are likely to spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body.
• Treatment options include:
• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy

Information

For more information about the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center or to schedule an appointment, please call (800) 749-7424 or (352) 265-8000.

Shands at UF Cancer Services were ranked 46th in the country by U.S.News&World Report. Learn more.

Shands at UF Cancer Services Navigation

History

University of Florida Shands Cancer Center 2007 Annual Report (PDF file)

Types of Cancer

Brain Cancer

Breast Cancer

Colon Cancer

Gastrointestinal Cancers

Genitourinary Cancers

Gynecological Cancer

Head and Neck Cancer

Larynx Cancer

Leukemia

Lung Cancer

Lymphoma

Oropharyngeal Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Skin Cancer

Cancer Treatment

Bone Marrow Transplant

Brachytherapy

Chemotherapy

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy

Radiation Therapy

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Surgery

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment or find out more information about cancer services offered at Shands at the University of Florida, please call 352.265.8000 or toll-free 1.800.749.7424

You may also email our Consultation Center (consult@shands.ufl.edu) or use our secure online form.