TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

Are there different types of skin cancer?

There are three main types of skin cancer. These cancers develop because of damage to the genes that normally control cell repair and regeneration. The damaged genes can cause the cells to behave abnormally, replicating rapidly and uncontrollably, leading to a mass of cells known as a tumour, or cancer.

Ultraviolet radiation is the major cause of skin cell gene damage.

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

This is the most common form of skin cancer, and grows from cells in the lower part of the skin's outer layer. It is rare for these cells to spread throughout the body, and their growth tends to be quite slow. BCCs are curable in most cases.

BCCs are generally round, hard, red or red-grey bumps, or small patches of scaly skin. Certain types may also have darker areas of pigmentation.

If they are left to grow, BCCs can erode and destroy surrounding areas. In extreme cases, a basal cell carcinoma could result in extreme damage, such as the loss of an ear or nose.

There are different types of BCCs, such as superficial, pigmented or nodular. For more detailed information, visit the Australasian College of Dermatologists' website.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

SCCs are also very common, and may grow significantly faster than a BCC. This form of skin cancer can occasionally spread throughout the body (known as metastasising). Squamous cell carcinoma can be fatal, although this is rare.

SCCs usually take the form of a scaly, fast growing pink lump or wart-like growth. They can break down, crust, bleed and ulcerate, but do not usually cause pain. They may, however, cause a burning or stinging sensation, and are often tender.

Areas exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, lips and backs of hands are the most common sites for SCCs to develop.

Malignant melanoma

A less common form of skin cancer, melanoma is the most dangerous. Melanomas can develop from existing moles, or appear as new spots, which change and grow. They may appear brown, red or black.

Malignant melanomas may spread throughout the body, via the lymphatic system and blood vessels, and can cause death.

Melanomas are cancers of the pigment cells in your skin. They can be distinguished from moles by the fact that they change, either in size, shape or colour (usually all three). Persistent itchiness can also be a sign of melanoma.

It is important to know that melanomas can occur that do not show these features. Sometimes melanomas with little or no brown pigment appear. They can look like red patches, or even blood blisters. It is also possible for melanomas to develop in areas not exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, soles of the feet or under finger or toenails.

It is extremely important that we look after our skin. So follow our SunWise Tips, and have your skin checked regularly.

Thank you to the Australian College of Dermatologists for providing information.

DISCLAIMER:   Photographs on this page are intended as a guide only. Skin cancer may appear in various different forms, and should be diagnosed by a qualified doctor.