Skin Cancer - Non-Melanoma

Non-melanoma skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed of all cancers. The more common basal cell skin cancer forms in the deeper basal cell layer of the skin, while the less common squamous cell skin cancer forms in the flat cells that are found more superficially in the skin. These cancers are most common in sun-exposed areas of the skin. Symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer can include abnormal spots on the skin which may be shiny or scaly and may be different in color than the surrounding area. They may bleed easily or even cause pain. Non-melanoma skin cancer is most often treated with surgery or other local therapy, but radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and/or systemic chemotherapy can also be used. The survival rate for non-melanoma skin cancer is excellent but can vary depending on the stage of diagnosis, type of treatment, and other factors.