SKIN CANCER

Overview of Common Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer develops when abnormal skin cells grow in an uncontrolled manner, most often due to cumulative sun exposure or ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While many skin cancers are highly treatable when detected early, delayed diagnosis may lead to more extensive treatment.

Skin cancer varies widely in appearance, behavior, and risk. Accurate diagnosis requires clinical evaluation and histopathologic confirmation.

How Skin Cancer Is Evaluated

Suspicious skin lesions are identified during a clinical skin examination and, when appropriate, dermoscopic evaluation.
A definitive diagnosis cannot be made visually.

When indicated, a tissue sample is obtained through biopsy or excision and examined by a board-certified dermatopathologist, who provides a detailed histopathology report.

Common Types of Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, and upper trunk.

BCC is usually slow-growing and rarely spreads to distant organs, but it can be locally invasive and destructive if left untreated.

👉 Learn more about Basal Cell Carcinoma

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma arises from the outer layers of the skin and is more likely than BCC to grow aggressively or invade surrounding tissue.

SCC often appears on sun-exposed skin but may also develop in areas of chronic inflammation or injury.

👉 Learn more about Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Melanoma

Melanoma is less common than BCC and SCC but carries a higher risk of serious complications. It may arise from an existing mole or develop as a new pigmented lesion.

Early detection significantly improves outcomes, which is why timely evaluation of changing or unusual lesions is essential.

👉 Learn more about Melanoma

Importance of Early Evaluation

Not all suspicious lesions are cancerous, but early assessment allows appropriate diagnosis and management. Skin cancer treatment decisions are based on:

• Pathology findings
• Lesion size, depth, and location
• Patient health and risk factors

When to Seek Evaluation

Consider professional evaluation if you notice:

• A new or changing mole
• A sore that does not heal
• A lesion that bleeds, scabs, or changes color
• Persistent redness, scaling, or thickening of the skin

Schedule an Evaluation

If you have concerns about a skin lesion or would like a professional skin assessment:

📞 Call(847) 518-9999

Medical Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Final diagnosis requires histopathologic examination of tissue by a dermatopathologist.