What are the main types of skin cancer?

The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Melanoma is less common but is the most serious form of skin cancer. However, all types of skin cancer should be detected and treated early to ensure they do not progress.

Skin cancer is caused by exposure to UV radiation from the sun (or tanning sunbeds) so sun protection measures, particularly during the summer months, combined with regular skin checks, are the best form of prevention.

Types of skin cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer:

• melanoma
• squamous cell carcinoma
• basal cell carcinoma.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Melanoma can spread rapidly and be life-threatening if left untreated.

Non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSC), including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC), are far more common and tend to be less serious than melanoma (as long as they are treated). 

Early detection is best

Unlike many other forms of cancer, skin cancer is often visible, making it easier to detect in the early stages. Early detection is the key to successful treatment and to reducing the impact of scars from surgery. Skin cancers that are detected early are also likely to result in less extensive surgery.

Melanoma

Although melanomas can occur anywhere on the body (including areas not exposed to the sun), the most common sites are the lower legs for women and the upper back for men. Some types of melanoma can also occur underneath fingernails and toenails, on the palms of hands, on the soles of feet and on the scalp.

Melanomas usually appear as a changed or new freckle or mole. Often they have an unusual shape or colour, or a variety of colours. However, in some cases they may not be coloured. Some types may itch, bleed or weep. Also, some may become raised quickly and could catch on clothing.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinomas are common in people over the age of 40. They often appear as a raised, crusty, non-healing sore, often found on hands, forearms, ears, face or neck of people who have spent much time outdoors.

Squamous cell carcinomas can be life-threatening if untreated.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinomas are the most common and the least serious form of skin cancer (as long as they are treated). They appear as a pale, red or pearly, smooth lump, usually on the face or neck. Although more common among older people, people frequently develop them in their early 40s and sometimes younger.

Solar keratoses (sun spots)

Solar keratoses (sun spots) are not skin cancer. However, they are a sign of sun damage to the skin and are a warning that you may be prone to skin cancer. These sun spots are flat, red or sometimes brown, scaling areas which may sting if scratched. 

Solar keratoses are common in fair-skinned people over 40 who have spent a lot of time outdoors.

Checking for skin cancer

You should check your skin regularly (including skin not normally exposed to the sun) so you will be aware of any changes. This is especially important as you get older, particularly if you are over the age of 50.

You should use a hand-held mirror or ask for help from someone else to check difficult to see areas, such as your back and neck. It is important to check areas underneath your armpits, inner legs, ears, eyelids, hands and feet. Use a comb to move sections of hair aside and inspect your scalp. Also see: Skin self-examination

If you are concerned about skin changes you should seek advice from a doctor.

Protection from the sun

Sun protection measures are particularly important during the daylight saving months from September to April when the levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation are higher. However, it is not just when the sun is shining, as UV radiation can still be high during cooler, cloudy days in summer.

Prevention measures include wearing sun protective clothing and hats, using broad spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin (and reapplying regularly), wearing sunglasses and seeking shade. Try to avoid the sun between the hours of 11am and 4pm during summer months. Also see: Sun protection for babies and toddlers

Avoid the use of sunbeds

The use of tanning sunbeds or solaria should be avoided, as these also expose you to high levels of UV radiation and the associated risks of developing skin cancer (in addition to wrinkles and other signs of ageing). Also see: Sunbeds and sunlamps

The Ultraviolet Index (UVI)

The Ultraviolet Index (UVI) is an international, scientific measure of the level of ultraviolet radiation in the environment. The higher the number, the greater the risk of skin damage. The Cancer Society advises sun protection when the UVI is 3 or higher.

Also see the SunSmart website for the UVI reading in your town, and more about sun protection measures: www.sunsmart.org.nz

Related topics

Also see Treatment of non melanoma skin cancers and Melanoma treatment

Original material provided by the Cancer Society of New Zealand, April 2010. Edited by everybody, August 2010.