Skin is the largest organ of the human body. Skin is part of the integumentary system, the physiological functions include protection with chemical, physical and biological barriers, aids in homeostasis regulation, sense receptors, maintenance, blood storage, as well as excretion by means of sweat. The anatomical structure of the skin can be divided into two main parts, the epidermis and dermis. The third part of the epidermis is the hypodermis, it is also known as the superficial fascia, where it is mainly comprised of adipose tissue and is therefore not examined as part of the skin. In the epidermis of the skin, there are specialized cells located in several distinct layers. The main epidermal cells are the keratinocytes and melanocytes. …show more content…
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer. According to the National Institutes of Health, basal cell carcinoma is most commonly found in individuals over the age of 40, but can arise in individuals with daily sun exposure. Basal cell cancer grows gradually and is usually undamaging towards other areas of the body. Basal cell carcinoma tends to give the same appearance as normal skin. Basal cell carcinoma symptoms include the appearance of a bump or growth that is “pearly or waxy, white or light pink, and sometimes even raised slightly or flat,” (Medline Plus). (4. Medline Plus. (U.S. National Library of Medicine). (2013): Basal Cell Carcinoma). Squamous cell cancer is another type of non-melanoma skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma usually occurs in the arms, face, hands, etc., areas in which there is long-term sun exposure. Squamous cell carcinoma symptoms include a bump that may be “rough with reddish flat patches around the surrounding area,” (Medline Plus). (4. Medline Plus. (U.S. National Library of Medicine). (2013): Squamous Cell Carcinoma). Though an individual might see an abnormal growth on the skin, the individual should follow-up with a check up to a dermatologist to determine what can happen from