Which is the most common type of skin cancer, characterized by a lack of keratin production?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and is primarily characterized by its origin in the basal cells, which are located in the lower part of the epidermis. These cells are responsible for producing new skin cells as old ones die off. Unlike some other skin cancers, basal cell carcinoma typically does not produce keratin, which is a protein found in the outer layer of the skin. This lack of keratin production is a defining feature that differentiates it from squamous cell carcinoma, which does involve keratinization as it arises from squamous cells that do produce keratin. Malignant melanoma, while a serious form of skin cancer, originates from melanocytes (cells that produce pigment) and is not considered the most common skin cancer type. Adenocarcinoma refers to cancers that originate from glandular tissue, which is not relevant in this context of skin cancer types. Thus, the unique characteristics of basal cell carcinoma align it as the most common skin cancer type noted for its lack of keratin production.