Which skin cancer type is considered the least common yet most deadly?

Melanoma is considered the least common yet most deadly type of skin cancer due to its aggressive nature and potential to metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body. While it accounts for a smaller percentage of skin cancer cases compared to basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths.

This is largely because melanoma can develop from existing moles or appear as new dark spots on the skin, and it can quickly invade nearby tissues and lymph nodes, making early detection and treatment critical. Unlike basal and squamous cell carcinomas, which are generally more localized and have higher survival rates when treated promptly, melanoma's tendency to spread means it poses a greater risk to patients' health if not caught early.

Actinic keratosis is not a type of skin cancer itself but rather a precancerous condition that can lead to squamous cell carcinoma if untreated. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the severity and implications of different skin cancer types.