Oregon Esthetician State Board

Which type of carcinoma is the most common and least severe?

1. Squamous cell carcinoma

2. Malignant melanoma

3. Basal cell carcinoma

4. Carcinoma in situ

The correct answer is: Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is recognized as the most common type of skin cancer and is generally considered the least severe when it comes to the prognosis of skin malignancies. This form of carcinoma originates from the basal cells in the epidermis and tends to grow very slowly. Basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body, making it less life-threatening compared to other skin cancers, such as malignant melanoma, which has a higher potential to spread and can be more aggressive. In addition, basal cell carcinoma can usually be treated effectively, particularly when detected early, often requiring local excision or other minimally invasive treatments. This contrasts with the other options, like malignant melanoma, which poses significant health risks due to its aggressive nature and higher likelihood of metastasis. Carcinoma in situ might present an early stage of cancerous changes but carries concerns for progression if left untreated. Thus, the properties of basal cell carcinoma establish its standing as the most common and least severe form of carcinoma among the types listed.