Childhood Skin Cancer

Definition

Childhood skin cancer is rare and includes several types, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. It can occur in children and adolescents, often linked to genetic conditions or significant sun exposure.

Characteristics

Symptoms may include a new or changing mole, a lump, or a lesion that does not heal. Pediatric melanoma may look different from adult melanoma, sometimes appearing as a bump that is pink, red, or flesh-colored rather than dark.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Diagnosis involves skin examination, dermoscopy, and biopsy. Prognosis depends on the cancer type, size, and stage at diagnosis. Early detection leads to excellent outcomes for most children, particularly for localized melanomas.

Treatment

Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the tumor. In some cases, additional therapies such as lymph node biopsy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy may be necessary, especially if the cancer has spread.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025