Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia.
The three most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. These cancers are named for the type of skin cell from which they arise – basal cells, squamous cells or melanocytes.
Most are small and easily treatable with simple excision. Some of these cancers may present at an advanced stage and require more extensive surgery, as well as other forms of treatment including radiotherapy and immunotherapy.
About Basal Cell Carcinoma
BCC stands for basal cell carcinoma, which is a type of skin cancer that develops from the basal cells that make up the bottom layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. BCC is the most common type of skin cancer and usually appears as a waxy, pearly bump or a pink, flesh-colored, or brownish patch on the skin that may bleed or develop a crust. It is typically caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, and it is more common in people with fair skin, a history of sunburns, and a weakened immune system.
Although BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can be locally invasive and cause disfigurement or destruction of nearby tissues if left untreated.
About Squamous Cell Cancer
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops from the squamous cells that make up the upper layers of the skin. It is the second most common type of skin cancer after basal cell carcinoma. cSCC usually appears as a red, scaly patch, a raised bump or nodule, or an open sore that doesn’t heal. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly found on areas that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, ears, hands, and arms. cSCC is often caused by prolonged sun exposure and is more common in people with fair skin, a history of sunburns, and a weakened immune system. If left untreated, cSCC can grow deeper into the skin and potentially spread to other parts of the body.
Merkel Cell Cancer
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that develops from Merkel cells, which are specialised cells found in the hair follicles and nerve endings of the skin. MCC typically appears as a painless, firm, shiny nodule on the skin that is usually red, pink, or blue. It can occur anywhere on the body but is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas, such as the head, neck, and arms.
MCC may be caused by a virus called the Merkel cell polyomavirus, however in Australia its most commonly due to long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Risk factors for MCC include advanced age, fair skin, a weakened immune system, and a history of other skin cancers. MCC tends to grow quickly and has a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, or brain.
Soft tissue tumours
Soft tissue tumours refer to the abnormal growth of cells in the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, tendons, and fat. While most soft tissue tumours are noncancerous (benign), some can be cancerous (malignant) and can spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of soft tissue tumours can vary depending on the size, location, and type of tumour, but may include pain, swelling, and a noticeable lump. Diagnosis usually involves imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans, and a biopsy. Treatment options for soft tissue tumours depend on several factors, such as the size, location, and type of the tumour, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment may involve surgical removal of the tumour, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.