What are the primary types of skin malignancy?

From the Guidelines

The primary types of skin malignancy are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, with basal cell carcinoma being the most common type, accounting for about 75% of skin cancers, as reported in 1.

Types of Skin Malignancy

The three main types of skin malignancy are:

• Basal cell carcinoma: the most common type, accounting for about 75% of skin cancers, and typically appears as a pearly or waxy bump, often on sun-exposed areas like the face and neck 1.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: the second most common type, presenting as a firm red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly surface, usually developing on sun-exposed skin 1.
• Melanoma: though less common, is the most dangerous form of skin cancer as it can spread rapidly to other organs if not detected early, and often appears as a new or changing mole with asymmetry, irregular borders, varied colors, diameter larger than 6mm, or evolution in size, shape, or color (the ABCDE rule) 1.

Prevention and Detection

These malignancies primarily develop due to cumulative UV radiation exposure, which damages DNA in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth 1. Regular skin examinations, sun protection (including broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours), and prompt medical attention for suspicious skin changes are essential preventive measures 1. It is crucial to prioritize prevention and early detection to reduce the risk of skin malignancy and improve outcomes, as highlighted in 1.

From the Research

Types of Skin Malignancy

The primary types of skin malignancy include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
• Melanoma 4, 5, 6

Characteristics of Each Type

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC):
  • Comprises approximately 80% of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs) 2
  • Commonly appears as a shiny, pearly papule with a smooth surface, rolled borders, and arborizing telangiectatic surface vessels 5
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):
  • Comprises most of the remainder of NMSCs 2
  • Commonly appears as a firm, smooth, or hyperkeratotic papule or plaque, and may have central ulceration 5
• Melanoma:
  • A more severe type of skin cancer 6
  • Shows a well-defined risk of additional primary non-cutaneous malignancies 6

Risk Factors and Associations

• Exposure to solar UV radiation is a predominant risk factor for NMSCs 2
• Skin type also plays a role, with a higher incidence of NMSCs among fairer-skinned individuals 2
• Immunocompromise can increase the risk of NMSCs 2
• BCC, SCC, and Melanoma have been associated with other non-cutaneous primary malignancies, including lip, oropharyngeal, and salivary gland cancer, as well as prostate, breast, and colorectal cancer 6