Skin is the largest organ in the body and weighs between 6 to 9 pounds. It covers a surface area of about 2.5 square yards. Skin carries out many important functions like protecting the internal organs, muscles, blood vessels and nerves by creating a barrier between the outer environment and that inside the body. Skin also helps to regulate body temperature and maintain water and electrolyte balance. It identifies touch and recognizes painful and pleasant stimuli.
Lot of factors like genetics, stress, hormonal changes, diet, environment, weak immune system etc. can cause skin disorders. It is very important to identify the cause of a skin disorder and undergo the required treatment, as a skin disorder can also be an indication of an underlying illness. A skin disorder can not only affect a person physically but emotionally as well, as it may cause inferiority complex and low self esteem.
Acne, psoriasis, dermatitis, sebaceous cysts etc. are some of the common skin disorders.
Skin cancers
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer affecting the sun exposed areas. This condition is more common in males and is caused due to prolonged exposure to sun light. This skin cancer grows slowly over the years and rarely spreads to other sites.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that mainly affects the face. This can also spread to other parts of the body. The primary cause behind it is again exposure to sunlight. It can also affect people who are exposed to industrial tars and oils.
Malignant melanoma
Malignant melanoma is a skin cancer that affects the pigment producing cells of the skin. It spreads rapidly to the other parts of the body. Exposure to intense sunlight and use of sun beds can cause this skin disorder. It is more common in people with fair skin.
