Medical Encyclopaedia › Skin cancer (short definition)
In brief: Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Germany. A distinction is made between melanoma (malignant melanoma), which can metastasise early, and the much more common non-melanoma skin cancer, mainly basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. The most important avoidable risk factor is UV radiation.
Types
Basal cell carcinoma grows slowly and only very rarely forms metastases, but can destroy surrounding tissue; it often appears as a glassy, pearly nodule with fine blood vessels. Squamous cell carcinoma often develops from precursors, actinic keratoses, on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, bald scalp and backs of the hands. Malignant melanoma arises from the pigment cells; it is rarer but more dangerous because it can spread early.
Risk factors
UV exposure is decisive: sunburn, especially in childhood and adolescence, increases the risk of melanoma; the UV dose accumulated over a lifetime favours non-melanoma skin cancer. Sunbeds also increase the risk; their use is prohibited for minors in Germany. Other risk factors are a fair skin type, many or unusual moles, melanoma in the family, a weakened immune system and older age.
Warning signs and early detection
For moles, the ABCDE rule helps: Asymmetry, irregular Border, different Colours, Diameter over about five millimetres and Evolution, i.e. changes in size, shape, colour or height. New areas of skin that itch, bleed or do not heal should also be checked. In Germany, people with statutory health insurance are entitled to skin cancer screening every two years from the age of 35 at a GP or dermatology practice; some health insurers also offer it earlier. As with any early detection, false alarms and overdiagnosis are possible.
Treatment
Most forms of skin cancer are removed surgically with a safety margin and are very treatable in early stages. For non-melanoma skin cancer and its precursors, creams, cryotherapy, laser or photodynamic therapy and radiotherapy may also be considered, depending on the findings. Advanced melanomas are now additionally treated with immunotherapies (checkpoint inhibitors) or targeted medicines, which have significantly improved the prognosis. After skin cancer, regular follow-up examinations are important.
Sun protection
Effective protection consists of several elements: avoid the midday sun, seek shade, wear clothing, a hat and sunglasses, and apply a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and UVA protection to exposed skin – thickly enough and again after swimming or sweating. Sunscreens do not extend the possible time in the sun indefinitely and are not a licence for long sunbathing. Babies should not be in direct sunlight. The UV index shows when protection is particularly important.
Related terms in the encyclopaedia
Melanoma, Basal cell carcinoma, Squamous cell carcinoma, Actinic keratosis, Mole, ABCDE rule, Skin cancer screening, Sun protection factor (SPF), UVA protection, UV index
Further reading on Medizin Aktuell
Sources
- Leitlinienprogramm Onkologie (DKG, DKH, AWMF): S3-Leitlinie „Prävention von Hautkrebs“, AWMF-Register 032-052OL
- Leitlinienprogramm Onkologie: S3-Leitlinie „Diagnostik, Therapie und Nachsorge des Melanoms“, AWMF-Register 032-024OL
- Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz (BfS): Informationen zu UV-Strahlung, UV-Index und Sonnenschutz
- Gemeinsamer Bundesausschuss (G-BA): Krebsfrüherkennungs-Richtlinie, Abschnitt Hautkrebs-Screening
Note: This article is for general information and does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor or pharmacist. Last updated: October 2026.