Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its incidence continues to rise. Recognizing the early signs of skin cancer is crucial for early diagnosis and successful treatment.

This visual guide aims to help you understand the different types of skin cancer, their symptoms, and how to identify them.

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a small, waxy bump or a shiny pink or red growth. The following signs can indicate basal cell carcinoma:.

Open sore that doesn’t heal
Reddish patch or irritated area
Shiny or pearly bump
Pink growth with elevated borders and a central ulcer

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a scaly red patch, an irritated area, or a sore that fails to heal. Look for the following signs:.

Crusty or scaly patch
Red, firm bump
Sore that bleeds or forms a crust
Growth with a sunken center and elevated edges

3. Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It can develop from an existing mole or appear as a new, abnormal growth. Regularly examine your moles and consult a dermatologist if you notice any of the following:.

Asymmetrical moles
Irregular borders
Moles with multiple colors or shades
Large moles (greater than 6mm in diameter)
Moles that evolve or change in size, shape, or color

4. Actinic Keratosis

Actinic keratosis is a precancerous condition that may progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. It typically presents as rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, and back of the hands. Watch out for:.

Dry, rough, or scaly patches
Flat or slightly raised lesions
Patches that may have a sandpaper-like texture

5. Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but aggressive type of skin cancer. It usually appears as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule on the face, head, or neck. Check for the following signs:.

Firm, shiny, dome-shaped nodules
Red or bluish discoloration of the skin
Fast-growing nodules
Lesions that are painless but may be tender to touch

6. Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans (DFSP)

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is a rare form of skin cancer that usually starts as a small, firm, tan or pink nodular growth. As it progresses, it may appear as a raised, red-purple tumor. Look for the following signs:.

Slowly growing nodules or tumors
Skin-colored or reddish-brown patches
Lesions that may be mildly painful
Irregular borders or shape

7. Sebaceous Carcinoma

Sebaceous carcinoma is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that typically appears as a painless nodule or indurated plaque. It often affects the eyelids but can also occur in other oil-secreting glands of the body. Check for the following signs:.

Yellowish, painless nodules
Lesions that are often mistaken for styes or chalazia on the eyelid
Ulcerated or crusted nodules
Growths that may bleed or ooze

8. Cutaneous Lymphoma

Cutaneous lymphoma is a group of cancers that affect lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell primarily found in lymph nodes. It often presents as a rash or eczema-like skin appearance. Seek medical attention if you experience the following:.

Red patches or thickened plaques of skin
Itchy skin that doesn’t improve with regular treatments
Skin that becomes scaly or crusty
Bumps or tumors on the skin

9. Angiosarcoma

Angiosarcoma is a rare and aggressive cancer that starts in the blood vessels of the skin. It often appears as bruise-like patches on the skin and can rapidly spread to other areas. Look for the following signs:.

Red to purplish patches on the skin
Lumps or tumors that may develop in the affected area
Bleeding or ulcers in the affected skin
Swelling in the affected area

10. Kaposi Sarcoma

Kaposi sarcoma is a type of skin cancer commonly associated with individuals who have weakened immune systems or certain viral infections. It often appears as red, purple, or brown patches on the skin and can affect multiple organs.

Be aware of the following signs:.

Red, purple, or brown patches
Lesions that may be flat or raised
Bumps or nodules on the skin
Swelling of the legs or arms

Conclusion

Early detection plays a vital role in the successful treatment of skin cancer. Regularly examine your skin for any changes, and consult a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious growths, moles, or lesions.

Remember to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours. Stay vigilant and empower yourself with knowledge to reduce the impact of skin cancer.