Milady Esthetics State Board Practice Test

Which is the most frequently diagnosed type of skin cancer?

1. Squamous cell carcinoma

2. Melanoma

3. Basal cell carcinoma

4. Dermatofibroma

The correct answer is: Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is indeed the most frequently diagnosed type of skin cancer. This type of cancer arises from the basal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. Basal cell carcinoma is often associated with long-term sun exposure, and its incidence has been rising over the years, particularly in populations with lighter skin. This form of cancer is typically slow-growing and rarely metastasizes (spreads) to other parts of the body, which is why it is often detected early and has a high cure rate when treated promptly. In contrast, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, while also serious, do not have the same prevalence statistics as basal cell carcinoma. Dermatofibroma, although a skin growth that can appear benign, is not a type of skin cancer. Understanding these distinctions can help in recognizing the importance of early detection and treatment of skin cancer, as well as the role of preventive measures such as using sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure.