Types of skin cancer

 

Like all body tissues our skin is made up of cells: basal cells, squamous cells and melanocytes.

Cross section of skin 

Skin cancer types are named after the skin cell in which the cancer develops: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Carcinoma is another word for cancer. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are often grouped together and called ‘common' or 'non-melanoma' skin cancers. 

What does skin cancer look like?

Skin cancer generally stands out as being quite different to surrounding skin. If a spot strikes you as being a bit odd, it probably is!

Skin cancer mostly appears as a new and unusual looking spot. It may also appear as an existing spot that has changed in colour, size or shape.

Here are some different types of skin cancers. Click on the table headings for more information.

 

For further information: visit Checking for skin cancer or download How to check for skin cancers [pdf 95K], a picture guide to skin cancers, warning signs and harmless spots.

 

Also refer to:

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