There are a variety of other conditions that may result in skin cancer. Most of these are easier to treat than melanoma and may include:
Basal cell skin cancer: This is the most common type of skin cancer, and overall, the most common type of cancer in humans. In fact, eight out of 10 skin cancers are classified as basal cell carcinomas. They are usually found in skin exposed to sunlight and rarely spread, but if left untreated, they can become locally destructive.
Squamous cell skin cancer: These cancers affect your face, ears, neck, lips, backs of the hands, or other sun-exposed areas. The cancers may appear in scars or chronic skin sores. Sometimes, it starts within actinic keratosis, a pre-cancerous skin condition caused by too much exposure to the sun.
Kaposi sarcoma: Evolving from cells that line the lymph or blood vessels, this cancer is caused by an infection of the herpes virus 8. Usually, it appears on the skin as tumors or inside the mouth, but tumors may develop in other parts of the body. The most common type seen in the U.S. is the AIDS-related Kaposi syndrome. These tumors are treated as part of the HIV/AIDS management.
Mycosis Fungoides and the Sézary Syndrome: In this non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, malignant immune T-cells migrate to the skin causing lesions. This cutaneous lymphoma is often managed topically by the lymphoma team. Sarcoma may also affect a person's eye as a primary ocular cancer.
Why Choose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center?
Sylvester is an NCI-designated cancer center. The National Cancer Institute has recognized Sylvester for its outstanding work conducting research in its laboratories, treating patients in its clinics and hospitals, and reaching out to medically underserved communities with innovative prevention strategies.
World class skin cancer surveillance and detection clinic. Earlier detection options and more accurate diagnoses allow us to identify skin cancer when it is most treatable.
Multidisciplinary care teams. You’ll have your cancer assessed and treated by a full team of skin cancer professionals. It adds up to personalized care focused on providing you with an optimal quality of life.
Immunotherapy clinical trials. You’ll have access to the most advanced treatment options in South Florida.
Treating more skin cancers than other providers in our region. Because we see so many patients with skin cancers, we have the experience needed to provide better outcomes with fewer potential complications.