Which type of skin cancer typically has the best prognosis if detected early?

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is known to have the best prognosis if detected early because it is the most common type of skin cancer and tends to grow slowly. BCC usually does not metastasize, meaning it is less likely to spread to other parts of the body compared to other forms of skin cancer. When caught in its early stages, BCC can typically be treated effectively with methods such as surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or topical therapies, leading to a high cure rate.

In comparison, while Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) may also have a good prognosis in early detection, it has a higher potential for metastasis than BCC, especially if it is invasive. Melanoma, while it can be treatable in its early stages, presents a more significant risk due to its aggressive nature and higher likelihood of spreading throughout the body. Therefore, the early detection and treatment of BCC lead to a significantly favorable outcome, making it the type of skin cancer with the best prognosis when identified promptly.