According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD):
- More than 2 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer annually in the United States (US).
- 1 of every 2 cancers in the US is a non-melanoma skin cancer.
- It is currently estimated that 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.
- Melanoma rates have been increasing by 2.8% annually since 1981.
- Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common forms of skin cancer, with a 95% cure rate if detected early and treated.
- About 75% of skin cancer deaths are from melanoma.
- Repeated exposure to ultraviolet light increases the chances of developing skin cancer.
- The best prevention of skin cancers is sun protection and early detection through self-exams or a full-body exam by a dermatologist.
As skin cancer trends continue, the dermatology field will continue to grow. As a result, more histotechnologists will require the proper training to confidently process dermatological specimens. This course introduces dermatopathology for the histotechnologist and laboratory personnel. Topics include skin morphology, sample collection, skin grossing techniques, and the Mohs surgical procedure. Due to the breadth and depth of dermatopathology, skin histology techniques will be discussed in a later, separate course (Part 2).
