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Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is often divided into two categories: non-melanoma and melanoma. Non-melanoma skin cancers are the most common cancers in men and women. There are two types of non-melanoma skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

Symptoms

• An open sore that persists for several weeks
• A reddish, raised patch or irritated area that may crust or itch, but rarely hurts
• A wart-like growth
• A new, irregularly shaped, dark brownish spot with darker or black areas
• A simple mole that changes in color (particularly turning darker), size (growing), or texture (becoming firmer), and/or flakes or bleeds

Causes/Risk Factors

• Exposure to sunlight/UV radiation
• Fair skin
• History of sunburns or fragile skin
• Family history of skin cancer
• Genetic mutations (see below)

Genetic Test

The following genetic tests may be appropriate based on your personal and/or family history:

• p16, CDK4 (Hereditary melanoma)
• PTCH (Gorlin syndrome [NBCCS])
• Genetic variants for skin cancer

Schedule an Appointment

To speak with a board-certified genetic counselor about your risks for this disease:

• Schedule appointment online
• Or call 1-800-975-4819
• Send email

Learn more about scheduling.

Learn More

American Cancer Society

Skin cancer foundation