Skin cancer is among the most common forms of cancer and most common skin afflictions for adults in the US. And despite how common it is and how much information is available about skin cancer, there is still so much that the average person doesn’t know or understand about this condition. For instance, many people do not realize that there are different forms of skin cancer that all affect the skin and a person’s health differently. Today, our board-certified dermatology experts thought it would be helpful to discuss the different kinds of skin cancer in more depth to help educate our readers.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer and the most common specific form of any cancer diagnosed in the US each year. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, roughly 3.6 million cases are diagnosed each year in the US. Caused by abnormal, and a rapid growth of basal cells found within the skin, basal cell carcinoma often appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin. In some cases, basal cell carcinoma can develop in the form of a flat red patch, a sore, or a raised pearly papule in areas like the head, neck, or shoulders (to name a few) that are more commonly exposed to sunlight.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. Like basal cell carcinoma, it occurs as a result of cellular mutations that cause excessive production of the squamous cells that are found in the middle and outer layers of the skin. People with compromised immune systems due to certain health conditions or medications may have a higher risk of developing a squamous cell carcinoma. Although they can develop anywhere on the body, squamous cell carcinoma most often occurs on areas of sun-exposed skin like the scalp, the backs of the hands, the ears, or the lips.

Melanoma

Although melanoma accounts for a very small share of skin cancer cases (roughly 1%), it is the leading cause of skin cancer-related deaths, reinforcing that it is not something that should be taken lightly. Melanoma begins in the cells within the skin that create melanin known as melanocytes. Melanoma is unique among skin cancers because it can develop in areas that are not typically exposed to sunlight. In some rare cases, melanoma can occur in areas that are rarely ever or sometimes never exposed to sunlight, including the soles of the feet, palms of the hands, and fingernail beds, or even inside the body (hidden melanoma).

Actinic Keratosis

While not technically a form of skin cancer, actinic keratosis is still something that people need to be aware of. Actinic Keratosis is a common form of precancer that can also increase a person’s risk of developing skin cancer in the future. It typically appears as a rough, scaly patch or bump on the skin’s surface. Like skin cancer, actinic keratosis is typically caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light over time. If left untreated, actinic keratosis can eventually develop into a squamous cell carcinoma which is why it is important to get checked out as soon as you notice it.

When detected early, all forms of skin cancer are treatable with medications, laser treatments, excisions, Mohs skin cancer surgery, and other effective methods that our experts perform. That’s why it’s so important to regularly check your skin for irregularities and see your dermatologist for annual skin exams. For more information on skin cancer, contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta to schedule an appointment today. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more skin care tips and practice updates.