PSI Barbering Practice Exam

Which skin cancer is the least common but 100% fatal if untreated?

1. Basal cell carcinoma

2. Squamous cell carcinoma

3. Malignant melanoma

4. Keratoacanthoma

The correct answer is: Malignant melanoma

Malignant melanoma is recognized as the least common type of skin cancer but has a significantly higher mortality rate if not treated promptly. This type of cancer develops from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, which gives skin its color. One of the critical factors that make malignant melanoma particularly dangerous is its ability to spread to other parts of the body quickly, often referred to as metastasis. If detected in its earliest stages, melanoma can often be treated successfully, but once it advances, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage, and the prognosis turns grim. While basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are more prevalent forms of skin cancer, they are generally considered less aggressive and have a high cure rate when treated early. Similarly, keratoacanthoma, although it can resemble squamous cell carcinoma, tends to resolve on its own in many cases. In contrast, malignant melanoma requires urgent medical intervention to prevent fatal outcomes, solidifying its reputation in discussions about skin cancer as particularly severe and requiring vigilant monitoring.