Skin tumors can develop from a combination of factors, according to Dr. Emrah Köksal, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery Specialist at Medical Park Göztepe Hospital. He stated that long-term sun exposure, chronic wounds, and genetic factors are the primary contributors.
Dr. Köksal explained that skin tumors sometimes remain localized to their region, but in other cases they can spread to surrounding tissues and other parts of the body. The most commonly observed type is basal cell skin tumors, he noted.
"We see basal cell skin tumors most frequently."
Basal cell skin tumors are the most frequently observed type of skin tumors.
While short-term sunbathing in summer alone is not a cause, Dr. Köksal warned that the main risk is unprotected exposure to sun rays over many years. He also highlighted that severe sunburns during childhood can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life, and that squamous cell skin cancer can develop years later specifically in burn scar tissues.
He listed warning signs that warrant attention: non-healing wounds for months, changes in the shape or color of moles, constant crusting, bleeding, or itching. These symptoms can be indicators of skin tumors.
Emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis, Dr. Köksal stated that it allows for smaller surgical interventions. In contrast, late diagnosis may expand the scope of surgery and increase tissue loss and scarring.
