Question

Why is basal cell carcinoma considered less dangerous than malignant melanoma? (Module 5.3D)

a) Basal cell carcinoma affects the stratum basale only and will not spread to any other layer, whereas malignant melanoma affects the melanocytes which can be found throughout the epidermis.
b) Basal cell carcinoma only occurs on the face, whereas malignant melanoma can occur anywhere on the body.
c) Basal cell carcinomas rarely become malignant and metastasize, whereas malignant melanoma cells quickly spread throughout the lymphatic system to other organs.
d) Basal cell carcinoma affect the cells of the stratum basale which cannot form tumors, whereas malignant melanoma affects the melanocytes which form cancerous tumors.
e) Basal cell carcinoma only occurs in the elderly, whereas malignant melanoma occurs in children and young adults.

Answer 1

Basal cell carcinoma is less dangerous than malignant melanoma because it rarely metastasizes and remains localized, making treatment more successful compared to melanoma, which is more likely to spread rapidly to other organs.

Step-by-step explanation:

Basal cell carcinoma is considered less dangerous than malignant melanoma because of its low potential to spread or metastasize. Specifically, basal cell carcinoma affects the stem cells in the stratum basale of the epidermis and tends to remain localized, which makes it more easily treatable through methods like surgery, cryosurgery, and topical ointments. In contrast, melanoma arises from melanocytes, which can be found throughout the epidermis and is malignant, leading to a higher risk of spreading rapidly to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system. Therefore, while basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, it is also the most curable, especially when detected early. On the other hand, melanoma is rarer but accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths due to its aggressive nature.