Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. The three main types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. BCC and SCC are often grouped as keratinocyte cancers. A spot cannot be diagnosed reliably from appearance alone, so a concerning change should be assessed by a doctor.

 

BASAL CELL CARCINOMA (BCC)
BCC is the most common type of skin cancer. It often develops on sun-exposed areas such as the head, face, neck, shoulders and back. It may appear as a pearly or pink lump, a scaly area, or a sore that bleeds, scabs, heals and returns. BCC usually grows slowly and rarely spreads, but untreated lesions can damage nearby tissue.

 

SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA (SCC)
SCC often develops on skin with long-term sun exposure, including the head, ears, lips, neck, hands, forearms and lower legs. It may look like a thick scaly or crusted spot, a tender red lump, or a sore that does not heal. SCC can grow more quickly than BCC and can spread to other parts of the body.

 

MELANOMA
Melanoma begins in melanocytes, the cells that produce skin pigment. It may appear as a new spot or an existing spot that changes in size, shape or colour. Melanoma can occur anywhere, including areas with little sun exposure, the soles of the feet and beneath a nail. Early assessment is important because melanoma can spread if it is not detected and treated early.

 

CHANGES TO HAVE CHECKED
Arrange an assessment for a new or changing spot, a spot that looks different from your others, a sore that does not heal, or an area that repeatedly bleeds, crusts, itches or becomes tender.

 

WHEN TO ARRANGE A SKIN CHECK
If you notice a concerning change, book a doctor-led skin check rather than waiting for your next routine appointment. Your doctor may examine the area with dermoscopy and discuss whether monitoring, photography or a biopsy is appropriate.