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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Lentigo maligna is a type of melanoma in situ, which means it is a very early stage of skin cancer that has not yet spread beyond the top layer of the skin (the epidermis). It typically develops in areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun for many years, such as the …
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Invasive melanoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. Unlike some other forms of skin cancer, invasive melanoma can grow deeper into the skin and spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. It is the most serious form …
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