Invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a very common type of skin cancer. The tumour starts from squamous cells that are normally found in a layer of the skin called the epidermis. Often, invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the skin evolves from a precancerous condition like actinic keratosis or a non-invasive type of skin cancer …
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Basosquamous carcinoma is a type of skin cancer. It is a more aggressive variant of basal cell carcinoma. In addition to the typical features of basal cell carcinoma, basosquamous carcinoma also shows features of another type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. The tumour starts from specialized basal cells found near the surface of …
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Solar elastosis is a non-cancerous skin condition caused by excessive and long-term exposure to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is also known as actinic elastosis or photoaging. Doctors consider solar elastosis a clear sign of sun damage, which occurs after years of sun exposure. What causes solar elastosis? Solar elastosis is …
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A dysplastic nevus, also called an atypical mole, is a noncancerous type of skin growth made up of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment and give skin its color. Dysplastic nevi look different from common moles because they have unusual shapes, sizes, or colors. While they are benign (noncancerous) and do not pose an immediate …
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Melanocytes are a type of cell found in the skin and other body parts. These cells produce melanin, the pigment that gives colour to your skin, hair, and eyes. Melanocytes play an important role in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. What is their function? The primary function of melanocytes …
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What is melanoma in situ? Melanoma in situ is a non-invasive type of skin cancer made up of specialized cells called melanocytes. If left untreated, melanoma in situ can turn into an invasive type of skin cancer called invasive melanoma. Where does melanoma in situ start? Melanoma in situ starts from specialized cells called melanocytes …
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What is Merkel cell carcinoma? Merkel cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer. It develops from the Merkel cells normally found in the skin. Merkel cells are neuroendocrine cells and Merkel cell carcinoma is a type of neuroendocrine tumour. For this reason, another name for Merkel cell carcinoma is primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the …
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Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare type of skin cancer. It starts in the connective tissue, which is the tissue that provides support and structure to the skin. DFSP usually appears as a slow-growing bump on the skin that can feel firm. It most often develops on the trunk, arms, or legs but can occur …
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What is sebaceous carcinoma? Sebaceous carcinoma is a type of skin cancer. Sebaceous carcinoma develops from specialized cells called sebocytes in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue of the skin. The cancer cells produce a fatty substance called sebum which often makes the tumour look yellow. Where in the body is sebaceous carcinoma found? One of …
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Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops from basal cells, which are found in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) and in hair follicles. While different types of basal cell carcinoma have unique appearances under the microscope and on the skin, they share similar causes and …
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