Basal cell carcinoma is the most common kind of skin cancer. It often occurs as a pink or pearly translucent growth on sun exposed areas such as the head, neck, upper back, arms, and legs. Basal cell carcinoma almost never metastasizes or spreads off of the skin but can be locally destructive.
SCC lower lipSquamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. Like basal cell carcinoma it may occur as a pink bump or growth that scabs and will not heal. Squamous cell carcinoma can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma as it does have the capacity to metastasize or spread to the lymph glands. |
Melanoma
Melanoma is much less common than basal or squamous cell carcinoma but is potentially lethal. It often occurs as a new or changing dark mole. Like all skin cancers, it is very rare in children. Melanoma is usually fatal if neglected but curable if diagnosed and treated early. Melanomas usually demonstrate four features called the ABCD’s. They are:
