Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year. Skin cancer can be divided into two main categories: melanoma and non-melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer, and it can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. Non-melanoma skin cancers are less serious and are usually treated with surgery or other local treatments.
It is important to be aware of the different types of skin cancer and how to spot them. Here is a brief overview of the different types of skin cancer and how to spot them.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It is caused by an abnormal growth of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.
Melanoma can appear as a new mole or an existing mole that changes in size, shape, or color. It can also appear as a dark spot or a sore that does not heal. It is important to check your skin regularly for any changes and to see a doctor if you notice any suspicious moles or spots.
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
Non-melanoma skin cancers are less serious than melanoma and are usually treated with surgery or other local treatments. The two main types of non-melanoma skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a small, flesh-colored or pink bump on the skin. It can also appear as a flat, scaly patch. It is important to see a doctor if you notice any suspicious bumps or patches on your skin.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a firm, red bump on the skin. It can also appear as a flat, scaly patch. It is important to see a doctor if you notice any suspicious bumps or patches on your skin.
Other Types of Skin Cancer
There are other, less common types of skin cancer, such as Merkel cell carcinoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and cutaneous lymphoma. These types of skin cancer are usually treated with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
It is important to be aware of the different types of skin cancer and how to spot them. If you notice any suspicious moles or spots on your skin, it is important to see a doctor right away. Early detection and treatment are key to successful treatment of skin cancer.