Non-melanoma skin cancer

Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world.' The estimated age-standardised rate of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in Australia is 1170 per 100,000 population, based on a 2002 national survey." The three main forms of skin cancer occurring in Australia are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma." Merkel cell lesions, Kaposi sacoma and cutaneous Iymphona are other rare types of cancer which may occasionally affect the skin.' Actinic (or solar) keratoses are the most common pre-malignant lesion seen by dermatologists, and have the potential to progress to SCCS,5,6 This article will provide an overview of NMSe and actinic keratoses, including their natural history, incidence, risk factors, clinical features, prevention and treatment.