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Skin cancer is a cancer derived from skin cells. In the majority of patients it grows locally and never spreads to distant sites, but if ignored or not treated promptly most skin cancers can eventually metastasis or spread to distant parts of the body.
The main types of skin cancers are Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. By far the most common skin cancer is BCC, the majority of which are found on the face, the part of the body which is exposed to the sun the most.
Sunspots, which are also called solar or actinic keratoses, are pink or tan coloured scaly spots that feel slightly rough to the touch. They occur commonly in people over 40 with light skin and hair/eyes and on skin that’s often exposed to the sun. Most common areas are the face, tips of the ears, back of hands and forearms.
Some experts in skin cancer regard Keratoacanthoma (KA) as a subtype of SCC, but with the difference that they may eventually resolve without treatment if left alone.
Melanoma is a less common form of skin cancer but can be one of the deadliest. Melanoma can form on any part of the body but most often forms on sun exposed areas such as the arms, legs and face.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer. It is derived from the basal or deepest layers of the epidermis (outer layer of skin).
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer, and often occur in elderly people who have had extensive sun exposure over their lifetimes.