What is the most common type of skin malignancy?

The most common type of skin malignancy is basal cell carcinoma. This type of skin cancer originates from the basal cells, which are found in the lower layer of the epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma is characterized by slow growth and typically occurs in sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, ears, neck, and scalp. It is important to note that while squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma are also types of skin cancer, they occur less frequently than basal cell carcinoma.

Basal cell carcinoma’s high prevalence is linked to factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure and fair skin types. It often presents as a pearly nodule or a flat, scaly patch, and while it is rarely fatal, it can cause significant local destruction if left untreated.

Dysplastic nevi, though they are atypical moles that can potentially develop into melanoma, are not classified as malignant on their own. Thus, while they can be concerning and warrant monitoring, they do not represent a type of skin malignancy in the same way that basal cell carcinoma does.