Although less deadly than melanoma, other skin cancers are far more common. The most common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), followed by Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). Basal Cell Carcinomas are rarely lethal but can cause considerable disfigurement if left untreated. Keratoacanthoma is a secific type of Squamous Cell Carcinoma that can resolve by itself. Squamous Cell Carcinomas do have the potential to spread through the body and can be fatal. Other rarer types of skin cancer include Atypical Firboxanthoma and Merkel Cell Carcinoma. With all types of skin cancer, early diagnosis and treatment offers the best chance of cure and good cosmetic outcomes.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

The following photographs are taken by attaching a digital camera to a dermatoscope. This technique allows the identification of a whole range of features below the surface of the skin not visible to the naked eye. Dr Wassall believes that dermoscopy improves his ability to diagnose Basal Cell Carcinomas considerably. Please click on the images to enlarge them.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma & Others

Dermoscopy is often not as useful in diagnosing Squamous Cell Carcinomas as the other types of skin cancer. The photographs below consist of a mixture of traditional photography and photographs taken by attaching a digital camera to a dermatoscope. Please click on the images to enlarge them.