Skin Cancer
There are four types of skin cancer: 1)basal cell carcinoma (a small fleshy nodule on the head, neck, or hands) is the most common form of malignant skin cancer, representing 75 percent of all cases; 2)squamous cell carcinoma (a nodule or red patch on the ear, face, lips, or mouth), which is a malignant tumor on the midportion of the epidermal layer of skin, can spread (metastasize) to the lymph nodes or internal organs; 3)actinic keratosis (a dry and rough crusty bump of different colors) are benign tumors that, in 20 percent of cases, can develop into squamous cell carcinoma; and 4)melanoma (described below). Even though skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, many of its forms are curable if detected early. It is now known that repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiation, especially from the sun, can likely result in skin cancers, especially in fair skinned people over the age of 40. Also, a family history (heredity) of such cancer can increase onešs chances of developing these malignant tumors.

Melanoma
Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, forms in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for the pigmentation (color) of the skin. It can begin as a small pigmented growth, usually in sun damaged areas. If it grows deep into the skin, it has a strong metastasizing (spreading) power, which will result in the destruction of other body tissues. Even though melanoma is not as common as other types of skin cancer, it produces the most skin cancer deaths.