Yes, you can have skin cancer and it not be melanoma. There are several different types of skin cancer, all of which can be divided into two main categories – non-melanoma skin cancers and melanoma skin cancers. Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are the most common types of skin cancer and are usually caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Melanoma skin cancers, on the other hand, are less common but more dangerous and are usually caused by a combination of factors, including exposure to UV radiation, genetics, and other environmental factors.
Types of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer and is usually caused by long-term exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It usually appears as a small, pearly bump on the skin and can be treated with surgery, topical medications, or radiation.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer and is usually caused by long-term exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It usually appears as a rough, scaly patch on the skin and can be treated with surgery, topical medications, or radiation.
Types of Melanoma Skin Cancers
Malignant melanoma: Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and is usually caused by a combination of factors, including UV radiation exposure, genetics, and other environmental factors. It usually appears as a dark spot or mole on the skin and can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation.
Lentigo maligna melanoma: Lentigo maligna melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is usually caused by long-term exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It usually appears as a flat, pigmented patch on the skin and can be treated with surgery, topical medications, or radiation.