Less common Skin Cancers

Sebaceous gland carcinoma is a rare but very malignant (lethal) skin cancer, occur most common in the oil glands of the eyelids. It may appear as a lump, chalazion or chronic red eye, and is often mis diagnosed. Failure to diagnose early can lead to loss of eye.

Merkel cell tumor or carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer, on sun damaged skin like the head, neck, arms and legs. This type of skin cancer spreads quickly and is characterised by a raised firm lump and can be red/purple or skin coloured. Early detection and removal is critical.

Microcystic adnexal carcinoma is another rare but aggressive type of skin cancer that is often mis diagnosed as it can resemble a BCC. If forms in sweat glands and is found often on the face and neck (although can be found elsewhere on the body). This skin cancer grows rapidly but generally remains local and rarely spreads.