More than 9,500 people in the country are diagnosed with skin cancer every day, making skin cancer the form of cancer diagnosed most often in the country. More people are diagnosed with this form of cancer than all the other cancers put together. There are several types of skin cancer.

What is skin cancer?
The skin is made up of several types of cells. Squamous cells are located on the skin’s surface, and as they die and flake off, basal cells come up to replace them. Other cells include melanocytes that contain the pigment that protects the skin from the UV rays of the sun and Merkel cells that allow us to feel sensations. Any of these cells can become cancerous and cause different types of skin cancer, and the treatment depends on which cells have been affected by the disease.

Types of skin cancer

• Basal cell carcinoma: The most common among the different types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma affects people with fair skin. It is caused by frequent exposure to the sun or tanning lamps/beds, and this cancer develops in the lowest layer of the skin. It appears as a fleshy bump or pale pink skin patch and commonly affects the head, neck, and arms. Though this type of skin cancer rarely spreads or metastasizes, early detection and treatment are important. Recurrent basal cell carcinoma is common, and regular follow-ups/monitoring are required to prevent further attacks.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type of skin cancer occurs in the outermost layer of the skin that is made up of squamous cells. It is usually caused by over-exposure to the sun and generally develops on the neck, upper portion of the hands, ears, and face. However, it can also occur elsewhere on the body, including the genitals or in scar tissue. As compared to basal cell carcinoma, this cancer is more likely to attack the fat cells below the skin and spread.
• Melanoma: Among the different types of skin cancer, this is one of the most dangerous types, as it has a tendency to spread rapidly. It may develop from an existing mole that turns cancerous or manifest as a dark spot on the skin. It can develop in areas that don’t normally get sun exposure, including the groin, bottom of the feet, and eyes.
• Merkel cell carcinoma: This is a relatively rare and more aggressive form of skin cancer that affects older people with a compromised immune system. It commonly appears on the scalp or face due to excessive sun exposure and can metastasize into the brain, bones, liver, and lungs.
• Other rare types: Kaposi’s sarcoma (caused by the herpes virus), lymphoma of the skin, keratoacanthoma (benign tumors), cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, and sebaceous carcinoma are some other rare types of skin cancer.