Skin Cancers

What Types Of Skin Cancer Are There?

Malignant Melanoma

Malignant Melanoma is the most deadly of all skin cancers. As with Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma , excessive and chronic sun exposure especially sunburn, is a major risk factor melanoma. It begins in melanocytes, the skin cells that produce the dark protective pigment called melanin which makes the skin tan.. Melanoma may appear suddenly or begin in or near a mole, or another dark spot in the skin. It is important to know the location and appearance of the moles on the body to detect changes early. Any changing mole must be examined as soon as possible. Light-skinned individuals are at particular risk but does not guarantee dark skin against melanoma.. Heredity also plays a part.

Melanoma is usually curable when detected in its early stages. The two common treatments of these skin cancers are either through surgical excision or Mohs microscopic surgery. The most effective treatment options will be discussed with the patient.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer; it is primarily found in fair-skinned people and rarely in dark-skinned individuals. Typically located on the rim of the ear, the face, lips, and mouth, this cancer may appear as a bump, or as a red, scaly patch. SCC can develop into large masses and become invasive. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, this form of cancer can metastasize (spread to other parts of the body); therefore, it is important to get early treatment. The cure rate for if found early and treated properly for both basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas is over 95 percent.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and appears frequently on the head, neck, and hands as a small bump, nodule, or red patch. Other parts of the body may be affected as well. Basal cell carcinomas are frequently found in fair-skinned people.. They usually do not grow quickly. It can take many months or years for one to grow to a diameter of one-half inch. Untreated, the cancer often will begin to bleed, crust over, heal, and repeat the cycle, and can extend below the skin to the bone and nerves, causing considerable local damage. Early detection of basal cell carcinoma can lead to early treatment and prevention of disfigurement.

Actinic Keratosis (Pre-Cancer)

A rough, red, pink, or brown, raised, scaly patch on the skin. Can be associated with transformation to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.