Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and its rates continue to rise as people spend more time outdoors and live longer lives. Although most skin cancers are highly treatable when identified early, delaying evaluation can allow these tumors to grow deeper, spread, and cause significant tissue damage.
Understanding the different types of skin cancer, how they present, and when to seek help to protect their long-term health. Dr. Lane Neidig, a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology in Annapolis, Maryland, provides advanced diagnostic and treatment options to address all forms of skin cancer with precision and personalized care.
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. It begins in the basal cells found in the deepest layer of the epidermis. These cancers typically appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, and upper chest. Basal cell carcinoma often presents as a shiny, pearly bump, a pink patch that slowly enlarges, or a sore that bleeds and refuses to heal. While basal cell carcinoma grows slowly and rarely spreads to other organs, it can invade nearby structures when neglected, leading to disfigurement and or functional impairment. Treatment options depend on tumor size, depth, and location and may include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, electrodesiccation and curettage, topical chemotherapy creams, or superficial radiation therapy. Early intervention is essential to prevent the cancer from becoming more aggressive or requiring complex reconstruction.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It arises from the squamous cells that make up the upper layer of the skin. Chronic sun exposure is the primary cause, but squamous cell carcinoma can also develop in scars, chronic wounds, and areas damaged by radiation or inflammation. These cancers most frequently occur on the face, scalp, ears, lips, and hands. Patients often notice a firm, scaly bump, a rough patch that becomes tender, or a sore that repeatedly crusts and bleeds. Squamous cell carcinoma carries a higher risk of spreading to lymph nodes or distant sites than basal cell carcinoma, particularly when the tumor is large, deeply invasive, or located on high-risk areas such as the lips or ears. Treatments include surgical excision, Mohs surgery for precise margin control, topical therapies for superficial lesions, and superficial radiation therapy for patients who are not surgical candidates. Prompt diagnosis is critical, as the danger of metastasis increases if treatment is delayed.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer because it can spread rapidly to other organs if not caught early. Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells that give skin its color. Although it can appear anywhere on the body, it is commonly found on the back, legs, arms, and face. Melanoma often arises from an existing mole that begins to change, but it can also appear as a brand-new lesion. Warning signs follow the ABCDE rule: asymmetry, irregular borders, color variation, increasing diameter, and evolving appearance. Melanoma may start small, but even early tumors can grow downward into deeper layers of the skin and enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Treatment typically begins with surgical excision, ensuring a cancer-free margin around the tumor. More advanced melanomas may require sentinel lymph node biopsy to determine whether the cancer has spread, along with immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy. Because melanoma is potentially life-threatening, full-skin examinations and monitoring of changing moles are essential for early detection.
Actinic keratoses
Actinic keratoses are not cancer but are considered precancerous lesions that may progress into squamous cell carcinoma if untreated. These rough, scaly patches are caused by cumulative sun exposure and commonly appear on the face, scalp, ears, forearms, and backs of the hands. Many patients mistake them for dry skin, but actinic keratoses persist, feel gritty, and may become tender. Treating these lesions early protects against their progression into invasive cancer. Options include cryotherapy, topical medications, chemical peels, and photodynamic therapy, all designed to remove abnormal cells before they become dangerous.
Rare skin cancers
Less common skin cancers require equal vigilance. Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but aggressive cancer that typically appears as a firm, painless, rapidly growing nodule on sun-exposed skin. Because it spreads quickly, early diagnosis and treatment—often including surgery, radiation, and immunotherapy—are critical. Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is another uncommon cancer that grows slowly but deeply, often requiring surgical removal with wide margins or Mohs surgery to ensure complete clearance.
The risks associated with skin cancer are driven primarily by ultraviolet radiation from sunlight and tanning beds. Fair skin, light eyes, a history of blistering sunburns, a weakened immune system, and family history further heighten susceptibility.
The danger lies in the possibility of delayed diagnosis. Even seemingly harmless spots can quietly grow and cause irreversible damage. Regular full-body skin examinations allow Dr. Neidig to identify suspicious growths early and intervene with the most effective, tissue-sparing treatments available.
Modern dermatologic care provides highly successful outcomes for most skin cancers when addressed promptly. Anyone noticing a new, changing, or non-healing lesion should schedule an evaluation without delay. For expert skin cancer screening and treatment in Annapolis, contact our team at Modern Dermatology to protect your skin and health with advanced, personalized care.