Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

Overview

Most skin cancers are not melanoma (nonmelanoma). The most common nonmelanoma skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which start in either the basal cells or squamous cells located at the base of the outer layer of skin (epidermis). The majority of nonmelanoma skin cancers develop on sun-exposed areas, resulting in formation of abnormal skin cells. With rare exceptions, most nonmelanoma skin cancers don't spread to other parts of the body and are curable if detected and treated early.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for nonmelanoma skin cancer

• Experience and expertise. Mayo Clinic skin specialists (dermatologists) are nationally known for their extensive experience in treating both common and rare types of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Mayo Clinic doctors treat thousands of people with skin cancer each year.
• Newest treatments and research. Mayo Clinic offers the latest treatments, including Mohs surgery, as well as clinical trials of experimental treatments. Mayo Clinic surgeons have extensive expertise and specialized training in Mohs surgery, performing several thousand surgeries annually. Mayo Clinic's leading edge cancer research gives you access to new potential treatment discoveries.
• Comprehensive cancer center. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center meets strict standards for a National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center, recognizing scientific excellence and a multidisciplinary approach focused on cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for cancer by U.S. News & World Report.

Why Choose Mayo Clinic
What Sets Mayo Clinic Apart

Read more about skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma.