Which type of skin cancer has the highest mortality rate?

Melanoma is recognized as the type of skin cancer with the highest mortality rate due to its aggressive nature and tendency to metastasize. It originates from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, and can develop not only on the skin but also in other parts of the body such as the eyes and mucous membranes.

The reason melanoma has such a high mortality rate is multifactorial. It is known for its ability to spread rapidly to other organs, which can lead to life-threatening complications. This aggressive behavior contrasts with basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, which are typically non-lethal and usually confined to the local area of the skin unless left untreated for an extended period.

Actinic keratosis, while a preliminary stage to squamous cell carcinoma, is not a type of skin cancer itself but rather a precancerous condition. It has low mortality associated with it, as it generally does not progress to invasive disease without additional risk factors.

Given these factors, melanoma stands out due to its potential for widespread metastasis and the associated risks, making it the deadliest form of skin cancer.