Understanding Skatoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Skatoma is a type of cancer that affects the skin, specifically the squamous cells. It is a malignant tumor that can arise on any sun-exposed area of the body, such as the face, ears, hands, and arms. Skin squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 20% of all skin cancers.

Skatoma can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, fair skin, light hair, and a history of sunburns. It can also be associated with certain viral infections, such as human papillomavirus (HPV).

Symptoms of skatoma may include a firm, flat, or raised bump on the skin that may be pink, red, or scaly. It may also be accompanied by itching, pain, or bleeding. If left untreated, skatoma can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious complications, such as disfigurement, scarring, and even death.

Treatment for skatoma usually involves surgery to remove the tumor, followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. Early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes, so it is important to practice sun safety measures and perform regular self-examinations to detect any suspicious skin changes early on.