Types

Basal Cell Carcinoma

One symptom is a small fleshy bump or nodule on the head, neck, or hands.

This type of cancer rarely spreads to other parts of the body. It can also extend below the skin to the bone and can cause damage. This type of skin cancer is mostly found in Caucasians. BCC develops on the areas of the skin mostly exposed to the sun, it starts in the cell layer of the epidermis and grows slowly.

Squamos Cell Carcinoma

his type may appear as nodules, or red scaly patches on the skin.

he SCC is the second most likely skin Cancer found in Caucasians and is, usually found on fair skinned people. SCC is found on the rim of the ear, face, lips and mouth, however it can spread to other parts of the body.

Melanoma

A disease of the skin in which cancer cells are found in the melanocytes. Melanoma usually occurs in adults but may occasionally be found in children and adolescents. It has the highest death rate and is responsible for 75% of deaths from skin cancer. It is occasionally found on fair skinned men and women, but people with other skin types can be affected. Melanoma can from in parts of the body not covered by skin. Such as: eyes, mouth, vagina, large intestine, and other internal organs.

People with the following characteristics may be at risk:

• Blonde or red hair
• blue eyes
• fair complexion
• family history of melanoma
• a changed or changing mole
• many ordinary moles (more than 50)
• many freckles
• an immunosupressive disorder
• dysplastic nevi
• sun exposure
• Inability to tan (tanning beds)

Dark brown or black skin is not a guarantee against melanoma. However, African-Americans can develop this cancer, especially on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, under nails, or in the mouth.

If you think you have any of these symptoms you should go to a doctor immediately.