Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most common types of skin cancer. It starts from squamous cells, which are the flat cells that normally form the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis). SCC occurs when cancerous squamous cells grow beyond the epidermis into the deeper layers of the skin. Pathologists describe this …
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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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Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but aggressive type of skin cancer. It is a type of neuroendocrine tumour, meaning it starts from neuroendocrine cells in the skin. Neuroendocrine cells are specialized cells that help the body send signals by releasing chemical messengers in response to nerve signals. Because of how these cells function, Merkel …
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Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare type of skin cancer that starts in the connective tissue. Connective tissue is the supportive framework that gives the skin its structure and strength. DFSP often grows slowly and usually appears as a firm bump on the skin. It most often develops on the trunk, arms, or legs, but …
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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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