Skin cancer is the most common cancer type in the US, with thousands of cases reported yearly. There were over 30,000 reported cases last year alone. Doctors also estimated a further 60,000 unreported cases. The skin consists of different cell varieties, and most are in constant motion. However, these cells might develop into skin cancer if they get damaged. All skin cancers are fatal and should be treated in time. Below we discuss the different types of skin cancers. Contact the best Chevy Chase MD skin cancer specialist to learn more about this disease.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma
Over four million skin cancer types are diagnosed yearly. Over seventy percent are basal cell carcinoma. This cancer occurs within the skin’s basal layer, the lowest part of the epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma happens in skin areas with the most exposure to the sun. It develops slowly with minimal chances of spreading. However, this cancer might metastasize if you ignore it. Basal cell cancer can also recur in the same place where cancer started. People who experienced this condition once are more likely to have it later.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This is the second-most common type of skin cancer. It emerges from flat squamous cells, which produce the epidermis. The epidermis is the skin’s outermost layer. This cancer occurs in parts exposed to the skin, like the ears and neck. It might also occur in areas like scars or genital areas. Squamous cancer cells grow slowly, rarely spreading to other body parts. However, these cells are more likely to invade fatty tissues under the skin.
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma
This rare but aggressive type of skin cancer starts in Merkel cells. This cancer might also start along the nerve endings responsible for the skin’s sense of touch. Merkel cell carcinoma is common in exposed areas like the scalp or face. People aged 45 and above with a weak immune are at more risk of getting this type of cancer. This cancer can metastasize to other body parts, so early detection is important.
- Melanoma
This is the fifth most common type of cancer in men. It starts in the skin’s outer layers, especially in parts exposed to the sun. Melanoma can also begin in moles and rarely in other body parts. Melanoma becomes riskier with age, and it affects people above fifty. You are more likely to have this condition if your body has many moles.
- Recurrent Basal Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer form. It starts within the skin’s basal layer in the epidermis. You are at more risk of this cancer if you have had it before. This cancer can recur at the same spot it was or elsewhere. Basal cells grow slowly, and they rarely metastasize. Early detection is crucial when fighting it.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer globally. It occurs in different forms, as stated above. It is advisable to go for yearly screens to help prevent it. This disease is fatal but can be managed after an early diagnosis. Reach out to Ali Hendi, MD and his team to get help on managing this condition.
