There are three main types of skin cancer:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Malignant melanoma
However, there are also other types of cancer such as connective tissue sarcomas, angiosarcomas and Merkel’s tumor, among others.
What is basal cell carcinoma?
Also known as basal cell cancer, basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer, accounting for 30% of all cancers. However, it is also usually the most benign, because it almost never metastasizes. Only locally in its infiltrating variety can it be very destructive where it settles.
This type of cancer is derived from the cells of the basal layer of the hair follicles. Thus, basal cell carcinoma is never located in areas where there is no hair, such as palms, soles and mucous membranes.
Generally, it starts with a small lesion that grows slowly, does not heal with ointments and it is typical that crust and blood alternate simultaneously. It usually affects people with light skin and eyes. In fact, sun exposure is the most important factor for the development of this cancer, which usually appears in exposed areas.
When diagnosed early, it can be adequately treated with surgery, electrocoagulation and curettage or with topical cytostatic creams, CO2 laser or cryotherapy.
Spinous cell carcinoma or spinocellular carcinoma
It is the second most important type of skin cancer after malignant melanoma. It affects the skin and mucous membranes, because it derives from the spinous cells of the epidermis. If not treated in time it can lead to lymph node and visceral metastases, especially those of the mucous membranes.
It usually starts with a lump or tumor that grows or with an ulcer that does not heal. It usually develops over months and sometimes appears on scars or old burns. One of the triggering factors when it appears on the lips or mouth is smoking.
The treatment of squamous cell carcinoma is surgery, which sometimes requires radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
What is malignant melanoma?
Malignant melanoma is cancer of the melanocytes, which are the cells that give pigmentation to the skin when we tan. In this sense, the sun has a direct influence on the development of this cancer, especially in sunburn in children.
Generally, this cancer is suspected by the ABCD rule, which refers to an asymmetrical freckle or mole with irregular borders and of various colors (black, brown, blue, red, white) or which increases in diameter.
It usually affects 1 in 80 people, but in early stages. For this reason, it is important to check moles. The treatment consists of surgery, but depending on the case, there are different specialized treatments.