PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which is the most common type of skin cancer?

1. Squamous cell carcinoma

2. Melanoma

3. Basal cell carcinoma

4. Adenocarcinoma

The correct answer is: Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for a significant majority of skin cancer cases. This type of cancer arises from the basal cells, which are found at the bottom of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. It is primarily caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Basal cell carcinoma typically presents as a small, shiny bump or a sore that doesn't heal, commonly found in sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, and neck. One of the reasons basal cell carcinoma is so prevalent is due to its association with sun exposure, which many individuals encounter routinely. In contrast, squamous cell carcinoma (the first option) is another common form of skin cancer but occurs less frequently than basal cell carcinoma. Melanoma, while significantly more aggressive and dangerous than both basal and squamous cell carcinomas, is much rarer overall. Adenocarcinoma, which originates from glandular tissue, is not classified as a skin cancer in the same context and has no relation to the skin's surface structures like the other three options. Therefore, when considering the overall incidence rates, basal cell carcinoma stands out as the most common skin cancer.