Common Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCC) are slow growing but can become locally invasive if left untreated. However it will rarely spread to other parts of the body
- Pearly or translucent bump (often flesh couloured, pink or red)
- May have visable blood vessels
- May also appear as a flat, scaly patch
- May resemble a sore that doesn't heal/keeps returning
- Can ulcerate in the centre, bleed or ooze
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCC) are faster growing than a Basal Cell Carcinoma. They can become locally invasive. The risk of metastasis is low (but higher than a BCC)
- Scaly, crusted or rough lesion
- Often appears as a thickened, red, scaly patch
- May have a hard surface (like a wart)
- Can become painful, tender or develop an ulcer
- Can bleed easily - especially of scratched
- May form a non healing sore
The most dangerous form of skin cancer due to its potential to spread (metastasize) rapidly if not caught early.
It can spread quickly to lymph nodes and internal organs - however early stage Melanomas are highly treatable with surgical removal.
If you have:
- New pigmented lesion in an adult
-A changing mole or one that looks different from others ("ugly duckling")
- Itching, bleeding, or pain in a mole
- Nodular melanoma subtypes often appears as a dark, raised bump that grows quickly and may lack typical ABCDE signs
Treatment Options
Common Types of Skin Cancer
Different treatment options are available at our clinic depending on the type of lesion, size and location.
These include:
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Cryotherapy
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Shave Biopsy
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Punch Biopsy
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Skin Excision
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Excision with a flap closure
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Skin Graft
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Wedge resection
Your doctor will inform you of the best possible treatment options for your condition at your consultation.