Is non-melanoma skin cancer as dangerous as melanoma?

Non-melanoma skin cancer, which includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, is the most common form of skin cancer. While it can be serious if left untreated, it is generally less dangerous than melanoma. Melanoma is a less common type of skin cancer, but it is more likely to spread to nearby tissues and other parts of the body, making it more dangerous [1].

Non-melanoma skin cancers are more successfully treatable when detected early. However, if left untreated, some types of non-melanoma skin cancer cells can spread to other tissues and organs [1]. It is important to understand the differences between these types for early detection and effective treatment.

What is non-melanoma skin cancer?

Non-melanoma skin cancer is a term that encompasses basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are the two most common types of skin cancer [1]. This type of cancer starts in the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) [2]. These cancers often appear in sun-exposed areas such as the head, face, neck, hands, and arms [1]. Risk factors include prolonged sun exposure, fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, and being over 50 years of age [1].

The difference between basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma

• Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer. It grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body [2]. It typically appears as raised, smooth, shiny bumps that look pearly, or hard, scar-like areas that may be white, yellow, or waxy [2].
• Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the second most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer. It can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and may spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes in some cases, especially if left untreated [2]. It can appear as raised, red or reddish-brown areas, or scaly, bleeding, or crusty patches [2].

Symptoms and signs to watch for

Non-melanoma skin cancers often appear as a change in the skin [2]. It is important to examine your skin regularly and look for any suspicious changes. You should consult a doctor if you notice any of the following signs:

• A sore that does not heal [2].
• A new growth or a change in the size, shape, or color of an existing mole or skin lesion [1].
• Raised, smooth, shiny, or pearly patches [2].
• Hard, scar-like areas that may be white, yellow, or waxy [2].
• Raised red or reddish-brown, scaly, bleeding, or crusty patches [2].
• Actinic keratosis, which is a rough, red, pink, or brown scaly patch on the skin that can sometimes turn into squamous cell carcinoma [2].

Early detection and treatment

Early detection of non-melanoma skin cancer is crucial to increase the chances of successful treatment [1]. People over the age of 50, or those with other risk factors, should perform regular skin examinations [1]. If a doctor suspects skin cancer, they will perform a skin biopsy, where a sample of the suspicious growth is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis [2].

Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and biological therapy [1]. The choice of treatment depends on the type of cancer, its stage, the size of the tumor, its location on the body, and the patient's general health [2]. For more detailed information on early detection and treatment, you can visit Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer: Early Detection and Treatment (Arabic).

It is important to follow up with a doctor regularly after treatment to monitor for any signs of recurrence or the development of new cancers.

Medical references

• Skin Cancer
• Skin Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version