Skin cancer is cancer that forms in tissues of the skin. There are several types of skin cancer. Skin cancer that forms in melanocytes (skin cells that make pigment) is called melanoma. Skin cancer that forms in basal cells (small, round cells in the base of the outer layer of skin) is called basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancer that forms in squamous cells (flat cells that form the surface of the skin) is called squamous cell carcinoma. Skin cancer that forms in neuroendocrine cells (cells that release hormones in response to signals from the nervous system) is called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. Most skin cancers form in older people on parts of the body exposed to the sun or in people who have weakened immune systems.
Skin cancer is a serious disease that is often curable if discovered early. This visual slide show will teach you how to spot potentially worrisome skin spots with the American Academy of Dermatology's A-B-C-D-E guide: Asymmetrical shape, irregular Border changes in Color, the Diameter, and how quickly the growth is Evolving.
An ultrasound can give you an early glimpse of your developing baby. Learn about it here:
Ultrasounds are performed throughout pregnancy to assess the development of the baby. Take a look at what doctors look for when viewing a fetal ultrasound - the heart, spine, legs, brain, and more. This slide show from the Mayo Clinic contains real ultrasound images.