Skin Cancer, Nonmelanoma

Overview

Nonmelanoma skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the skin.

The two main types of nonmelanoma skin cancer are:

When found and treated early, most of these skin cancers can be cured.

Other types of nonmelanoma skin cancers are much less common. These include Merkel cell carcinoma and some sarcomas.

Treatment

Your doctor will want to remove all of the cancer. The most common way is surgery to cut out the abnormal growth. Radiation may be done if surgery isn't an option. Other treatments include medicines that are put on the skin (topical therapy), chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy. You will need regular checkups.

How to lower your risk

You can help lower your risk for all types of skin cancer by being careful in the sun. For example, stay out of the sun during midday hours or seek shade. Wear sun-protective clothes when you're outdoors. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on exposed skin. Avoid sunbathing and tanning salons.