Understanding the types of skin cancer and how we treat them at Apex Skin Clinic
Types of Skin Cancer and How We Treat Them at Apex
Understand the most common and serious forms of skin cancer- and how we diagnose and treat them at Apex Skin Clinic.
Skin Cancer Is Not One Disease, Here's What You Should Know:
There are several types of skin cancer, each with distinct causes, behaviours, and levels of urgency. At Apex Skin Clinic, our team of consultant dermatologists and skin cancer specialists diagnose and treat all major forms - including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and pre-cancerous conditions like Bowen’s disease and actinic keratosis.
Skin cancer may appear as a shiny bump, open sore, or an evolving existing mole. Some arise from damage to the outer layers of the skin caused by UV exposure, while others develop deeper within. We combine clinical expertise, dermoscopy, mole mapping, and surgical options to provide early, accurate diagnosis and fast access to care.
The Main Types of Skin Cancer We Diagnose and Treat
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Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, particularly in patients who are often exposed to the sun. Typically seen on the face, scalp, and ears, it may appear as a shiny bump, a flat patch, or a non-healing ulcer.
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Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma may present as a scaly, firm red nodule or a crusty sore that doesn’t heal. It frequently appears in areas affected by chronic UV exposure, such as the lips, scalp, ears, and hands.
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Melanoma
Melanoma skin cancer develops in the pigment-producing melanocytes and is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It may begin in an existing mole or appear as a new, dark, irregular lesion. Key signs include asymmetry, uneven borders, varied colour, a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and rapid evolution.
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Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis)
This pre-cancerous skin change appears as rough, sandpaper-like patches on areas exposed to the sun, such as the forehead, scalp, or backs of hands. Left untreated, some may progress to squamous cell carcinoma.
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Bowen’s Disease
A form of squamous cell carcinoma in situ, Bowen’s Disease presents as a red, scaly patch that may resemble eczema. While confined to the upper skin layer initially, it can develop into invasive SCC if untreated. We use biopsy to confirm diagnosis, followed by treatment such as cryotherapy, topical agents, or minor surgery.
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Melanoma in Situ/Lentigo Maligna
Melanoma in situ, also known as lentigo maligna when it appears on sun-damaged skin such as the face, is the earliest stage of melanoma skin cancer. At this stage, abnormal melanocytes are only on the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). Appearing as a slowly enlarging, irregularly pigmented patch.
What to Expect When You Visit Apex Skin Clinic
We understand how unsettling it can be to discover a new or unusual lesion. Our approach is thorough and supportive from the outset:
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You will be seen by a consultant dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or specialist nurse for a targeted review of the lesion, your medical background, and any relevant immune system or family history factors.
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We use high-resolution dermoscopy to inspect the structure of the lesion beneath the layers of the skin. This is often paired with mole mapping, especially when reviewing multiple or atypical moles.
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Your lesion is classified as benign, pre-cancerous, or cancerous (e.g. melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma). If there is uncertainty, a biopsy will be offered.
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Treatment options, which may include cryotherapy, excision, or radiation therapy, are discussed and, when needed, arranged quickly on-site.
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For patients at increased risk, we offer skin cancer surveillance, annual skin checks, and ongoing mole tracking.
What Makes Each Type of Skin Cancer Unique
Different skin cancers originate in different cells and layers of the skin, affecting how they behave, spread, and are treated:
Basal cells are located in the base of the epidermis; cancers here are typically slow-growing but can become locally advanced BCC if neglected.
Squamous cells reside in the outer layer; these can become aggressive if not caught early and may spread to lymph nodes.
Melanocytes, which produce pigment, give rise to melanoma skin cancer - the most serious type, capable of rapid spread through the body if not treated early.
Understanding these differences supports our consultant-led decisions for treatment, which may involve mole removal, surgical excision, or referrals for oncology care if cancer cells show signs of deeper involvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Look for changes in size, shape, colour, or sensation. If a lesion becomes itchy, bleeds, or starts to change rapidly, book a skin cancer check London. Our team uses dermoscopy and biopsy to assess.
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No - early cases may be managed with cryotherapy, topical treatments, or radiation therapy depending on type and stage.
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At Apex, most patients are assessed and treated within days. We offer same-site procedures, and referral to oncology or plastic surgery if needed.
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Basal cell carcinomas are slow-growing and rarely spread. Squamous cell carcinomas are more likely to spread if untreated. Both require evaluation.
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They’re useful for awareness but often incomplete. Don’t self-diagnose - book an expert review.
If you are worried about a mole, skin lesion, or changing area of skin, our team is here to help. We offer clear diagnosis, expert treatment, and continued care in a calm, professional environment. Whether you are seeking a skin cancer diagnosis and treatment plan or simply want reassurance, we will guide you with expertise and compassion.