Which form of skin cancer is most common and least severe?

Basal cell carcinoma is recognized as the most common and least severe form of skin cancer. This type of cancer typically arises from the basal cells in the epidermis, which is the outer layer of the skin. One of the key reasons why it is considered the least severe is that it tends to grow slowly and rarely metastasizes, which means it is unlikely to spread to other parts of the body.

Additionally, basal cell carcinoma is often associated with sun exposure, particularly in areas of the skin exposed to the sun, and can usually be treated effectively through a variety of methods, including surgical excision, curettage, cryotherapy, or topical treatments. The prognosis for individuals diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma is generally very good, especially when treated early.

Other forms of skin cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma, while not uncommon, tend to have a more aggressive behavior, with higher chances of spreading and causing more severe health problems if not addressed promptly. Herpes simplex, while a viral infection that affects the skin, is not classified as a form of skin cancer. These distinctions highlight why basal cell carcinoma is considered the least severe among skin cancers.