Types of Skin Cancer
There are three main types of skin cancer
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
These are the most common skin cancers in human beings. A BCC is a locally-growing plaque (mostly flat patch) or nodule (raised spot) that will often ulcerate. Basel cell carcinoma is a slow-growing malignant tumour. It does not usually metastasise, but can become large, destructive to surrounding skin, and disfiguring if left untreated.
Treatments depend on size, location and sub-type, and include topical creams and/or excision. These kinds of tumours respond very well to treatment.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
SCCs are the second most common type of skin cancer. They can have varying presentations, but often occur as red scaly lesions. A squamous cell carcinoma is more likely to metastasise and is associated with a higher mortality rate than BCC.
Again, treatment depends on size and location, and can include applications of liquid nitrogen or topical creams, but excision is often the best management option. It is important that these are treated early and with the correct treatment option. If caught early SCCs can be very successfully excised and eliminated.
Melanoma
Melanoma are rarer but potentially more dangerous skin lesions. A melanoma is usually pigmented with blacks, blues browns and grays. It often has ‘depth’ which is why you see the pigment in differing shades – the colour can change with the depth of the lesion.
One simple indicator for melanoma is the ‘ugly duckling sign’. Most of our moles look the same or similar to other moles on our body. If a mole looks different, it’s the ugly duckling and should be checked out. These moles can be larger, smaller, lighter or darker. The point is that the mole is different from its neighbours. If in doubt, get it checked.
Treatment is excision.
Other Lumps and Bumps
There are also many other harmless skin lumps and bumps. Some are cosmetic, others may be pre-cancerous. Skin checks are the best way to keep on top of changes.
Any moles that you think are changing should be assessed. Come and see me for a skin check, it's quick, easy and accessible.
If you have not been checked for a while then make a booking.