Five Kinds of Skin Cancer

There are five different kinds of skin cancer. All of them are dangerous, though some are of more concern than others.

The most common type of skin cancer is Basal cell carcinoma. Over a million Americans develop this cancer each year.  Seventy five percent of all skin cancers treated are of this variety. It’s believed that Basal cell carcinoma is the result of spending too much time in the sun. Which explains why this form of skin cancers tends to be found on those areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure. These include the face, scalp, and upper torso. Basal cell carcinoma often begins as a shiny bump, then takes the form of a sore that doesn’t heal, or that heals and then appears unhealthy again.

At least two hundred thousand Americans yearly are treated for Squamous cell carcinoma. This is the second most common form of skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is also the result of too much sun, though it’s more common among the middle-aged and the elderly. This form of skin cancer first appears as a crusty spot, reddened and irritated, very similar to a small growth or boil.

Melanoma is the most dangerous of the skin cancers. It affects four percent of those who are treated for skin cancer, and is the most lethal. If found early, the cure rate is a stunning ninety five percent, but once it begins to spread there is very little hope. If you see changes to a mole or a new mole, especially if you are over thirty, see your health care provider immediately.

The remaining skin cancers are Paget’s disease and Kaposi’s sarcoma. Paget’s occurs because of cancers in the sweat glands of the intestines, genitals or urinary tract. The cancer shows up in the genital area or around the anus. It can also appear around the nipples. The sores resemble normal patchy skin, rashes, and can be very itchy, even painful. A biopsy is usually needed to determine if its just a skin condition or its Paget’s.

Kaposi’s sarcoma is an AIDS related skin cancer related to herpes.

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