Definition

Noun: A type of cancer that originates in the skin. It is a malignant neoplasm (an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of tissue) arising from the cells of the skin, most commonly due to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.

Usage

The term "skin cancer" is used as a non-count noun to refer to the disease category in general, and as a count noun when referring to specific instances or types. - General reference: Excessive sun exposure increases the risk of developing skin cancer. - Specific reference: The biopsy confirmed it was a skin cancer. / Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Regular use of sunscreen can help prevent skin cancer.
  • The dermatologist specializes in the treatment of various skin cancers.
  • Early detection of skin cancer greatly improves the chances of a cure.

Advanced Usage

• "to be diagnosed with skin cancer": to receive a formal medical confirmation of having the disease.
  • After noticing a changing mole, she was diagnosed with skin cancer.
• "skin cancer screening": a preventive medical examination to check for signs of the disease.
  • Annual skin cancer screenings are recommended for people with fair skin.

Variants and Related Words

• Melanoma (n): A specific, often serious type of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes (the cells that produce pigment).
  • Melanoma is a less common but more dangerous form of skin cancer.
• Carcinoma (n): A cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs. "Skin cancer" often refers to carcinomas like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
• Actinic keratosis (n): A pre-cancerous skin lesion caused by sun damage that can sometimes develop into skin cancer.

Synonyms

• Cutaneous malignancy: A formal medical term for a cancerous growth on the skin.
• Dermal carcinoma: A technical term specifying a cancerous tumor originating in the skin layers.

Related Phrases

• "risk factor for skin cancer": a condition or behavior that increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
  • A family history of melanoma is a significant risk factor for skin cancer.
• "skin cancer awareness": public knowledge and education about the prevention and signs of the disease.
  • May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.

Noun

1. a malignant neoplasm of the skin