Types of Skin Cancer

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), also called basal cell skin cancer, makes up about 80% of skin cancers. 

• This disease is caused by sun exposure and is usually found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, like the scalp, forehead, face, nose, neck and back.
• It is most common in older men who worked outdoors for many years, but the number of women diagnosed with basal cell skin cancer has been rising and the average age at diagnosis has been dropping.
• Basal cell skin cancer grows slowly and rarely spreads. If untreated, however, it may eventually spread to other tissues. 

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), also called squamous cell skin cancer, makes up about 20% of skin cancers.

• It affects the middle layer of the skin and may occur on any part of the body, including the mucous membranes (soft, moist tissue that lines parts of the body).
• Sun exposure is the most common cause. Squamous cell skin cancer often appears in areas exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, scalp, lower lip and rim of the ear.
• Squamous cell skin cancer often starts as a precancerous condition called actinic keratosis.
• It is relatively slow growing, but more aggressive than basal cell skin cancer. 
• Squamous cell skin cancer has a high cure rate, about 95%, if detected early and treated. If squamous cell skin cancer is not treated, however, it may spread to other parts of the body.

Melanoma skin cancer begins in melanocytes, which are cells that produce pigment (melanin) in the skin. While it most often appears on sun-damaged skin, melanoma can develop in other less obvious places, too, like under the nails, on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, as well as inside the mouth and eyes.

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare type of skin cancer in which cancerous cells are found on or just beneath the skin. A quick diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to cure this disease.