Non-melanoma skin cancer
There are two main types of skin cancer – non-melanoma and melanoma – along with some much rarer types. Non-melanoma is more common, and it’s much less likely to spread.
What is non-melanoma skin cancer
Non-melanoma skin cancer develops slowly in the upper layers of the skin. There are two types:
- Basal cell carcinomas (BCC) – common and easiest to treat and cure
- Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) – treatment may be less successful if other parts of the body have been affected
Non-melanoma skin cancer usually appears on parts of your body exposed to the sun. That’s generally on the face, neck, bald scalp, arms, back of hands and lower legs. Most non-melanoma skin cancers can be cured.
Causes of non-melanoma skin cancers
Basal cell carcinomas are caused mainly by exposure to the sun. They are more common in people with fair skin. Other risk factors include:
- A history of skin cancer
- A family history of skin cancer
- Some rare inherited disorders
- UV light from a sun lamp
Squamous cell carcinomas are caused by sun exposure, but risk factors also include:
- A family history of skin cancer
- A history of skin cancer
- Drinking too much alcohol
- Immunosuppressant medicines
- Injuries, particularly with elderly people
- Smoking
- Some rare inherited disorders
- UV light from a sun lamp
Symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer
- A pink or red lump that doesn’t heal
- A scaly area of skin that doesn’t heal
- Smooth lump with a pearly appearance
- A red or dark coloured spot or sore that doesn’t heal within a month
- A red or dark coloured spot or sore that is painful, bleeds or itches
- Broken skin that doesn’t improve within a month
- Red patches on your skin
Having one or more of these symptoms doesn’t mean you have cancer but it’s best to ask your doctor for advice. The sooner your cancer is detected, the better the chances of treating it successfully.
Tests and diagnosis
In most cases, your doctor will be able to give a diagnosis after a physical examination of your skin. They may use a hand-held microscope (or dermatoscope). Sometimes, a biopsy (small sample of skin) may also be taken for analysis.
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