Question 1

BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

Accepted Answer

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and represents about 80 percent of new skin cancers. This type is rarely life-threatening and does not usually spread. A predisposition to basal cell carcinoma can be inherited, but these lesions usually occur in patients who have had repeated sun exposure. Patients that develop a basal cell cancer have a 60 percent chance of developing another one within five years, so it is essential that all patients who have had a skin cancer continue to see a doctor regularly. Basal Cell Carcinoma may appear as a red, flesh-colored or pearly bump, or may have the appearance of an ulcer.

Question 2

SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

Accepted Answer

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is another common type of skin cancer that is rarely life-threatening when caught early. It represents about 16 percent of new skin cancers and is found most often in people with fair complexions. This type may develop from an actinic keratosis which is a pre-cancer that tends to be a red and scaly lesion on sun-damaged skin. Actinic keratosis can often range in size from a pencil eraser to the size of a coin and form on all sun-exposed areas of the body. Squamous Cell Carcinoma can also appear as a red bump, or may have the appearance of an ulcer.

Question 3

MALIGNANT MELANOMA

Accepted Answer

Malignant Melanoma represents about four percent of newly diagnosed skin cancers. It is the most serious form of skin cancer and can be deadly. However, if treated early while it is still thin, the cure rate is about 95 percent. If it is allowed to grow it can be fatal. This cancer usually stems from a mole that has been present for many years. If you have a mole that increases in size or changes in color, you should have it examined by a doctor immediately. Malignant Melanoma may also appear as a dark, irregular pigmented patch.

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Dr. Patricia Dickerson, MD