Types of skin cancer: which spots are potentially malignant?

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in Europe. One in five Belgians will develop a form of skin cancer before the age of 75. Avoiding harmful UV exposure is the key to reducing your risk of skin cancer. This means avoiding unnecessary sun exposure, applying sunscreen and wearing protective clothing.

Skin cancer can occur in anyone at any age. It is most common in people over 50 years of age or in people with prolonged and/or intense sun exposure.
By knowing the signs of skin cancer and doing regular self-exams of your skin, you can detect and treat early suspicious lesions before they become more serious. Skin cancer is treatable if caught early. If you have a spot that looks suspicious, see your doctor.

Also read: Skin cancer: why should you check your skin?

Types of skin cancer

1. Melanoma

This is the least common form of skin cancer (8%), but the most dangerous because it can metastasize. Compared to basal and squamous cell carcinomas, melanomas occur more often in younger age groups. They appear as pigmented spots. These spots can become darker or develop irregular borders, often with different colors and this can happen over a period of weeks to months. The spots can also start as a pinkish-red bump without pigment, these usually grow faster. Immediate treatment is necessary.

Also read: Melanoma: aggressive skin cancer

2. Basal cell carcinoma

This is the most common form of skin cancer (70%), but fortunately also the least dangerous. These cancers take the form of a raised, usually skin-colored bump with a pearly, shiny edge, or a sore that does not heal. It can also be a lump with a crust that grows slowly. This type of skin cancer does not spread to other parts of the body. If a basal cell carcinoma is not treated, the lesions can ulcerate and grow into the deeper tissues of the skin.

3. Squamous cell carcinoma (squamous cell carcinoma)

This is the second most common form of skin cancer (50%), which mainly occurs on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face and scalp. It is usually a crusty growth, which can grow and ulcerate quickly. These lesions can spread quickly, especially on the lips, ears and fingers, or in cases of reduced immune function (reduced resistance). Surgical treatment is necessary.

Outdoor workers who are exposed to UV radiation for long periods of time are 77% more likely than the general population to develop squamous cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis. In addition, they have a 43% higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. In Europe, there are 14.5 million outdoor workers who spend at least 75% of their time outdoors.

4. Merkel cell carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer that can quickly spread. A Merkel cell carcinoma is a pink, red or reddish-purple shiny lump that mainly appears on parts of the skin that are often exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck or arms. The lump is usually painless, feels firm and grows to 1 to 8 centimeters in size within a few weeks. This form of skin cancer is not common.

Also read: Skin cancer: what is the difference between UVA and UVB radiation?

What do malignant spots look like?

Look out for stains that:

• change shape, color and size
• look different from the other spots
• to be asymmetrical
• have an irregular edge
• feel rough or flaky (sometimes you can feel these spots before you see them)
• have different colors mixed together
• itch
• bleeding or discharge of fluid
• have a pearly sheen
• look like a wound that doesn't heal

If you notice two or more of these warning signs, consult your doctor or a dermatologist.

Sources:
https://www.kanker.be
https://www.umcg.nl