Can severe sunburn increase the risk of cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 18 years old and recently suffered a severe sunburn on my entire torso. It has been five days since the burn occurred, and I have started to experience peeling all over the affected area, including a painful blister about the size of a quarter in the area that was burned the worst, which is right between my breasts. The first three days were very painful, and my skin was extremely sensitive and hurt to touch. The burned area is starting to appear very tan. I have fair skin and freckles on my face and arms. How likely is it that this one burn will increase my risk of skin cancer in the future, assuming I avoid further burns and consistently use sunscreen?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on your description, it appears you are experiencing sunburn, which is a clinical reaction resulting from the acute effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on the skin. In severe cases, swelling and blisters may occur.

For treatment, normal saline or Potassium permanganate (1:10,000 dilution) compresses or soaks are recommended to wash away serous discharge, crust, and debris and to help reduce oozing and inflammation. Additionally, applying Fluticasone 0.05 percent cream twice daily and taking a tablet of Levocetirizine once daily for five days is advised. Consult your specialist doctor, discuss with him or her, and take the medicines with their consent. In severe cases like yours, systemic oral steroids may be required, so it is advisable to consult a dermatologist nearby.

The risk of developing skin cancer is not solely dependent on the degree of sunburn but rather on multiple factors, including genetics and the level of radiation exposure you receive.

I hope this information is helpful to you.

Thank you.