Signs That May Indicate Skin Cancer
There are several types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Each type may present differently. The best way to monitor your skin is to look for unusual changes, including the following signs.
1. An Abnormal Mole or Dark Spot
Use the ABCDE rule to observe suspicious moles:
๐ Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other, or the shape appears irregular.
๐ Border: The edges are uneven, jagged, blurred, or poorly defined.
๐ Colour: The mole contains several colours, such as brown, black, red, white, or blue.
๐ Diameter: The mole is larger than 6 millimetres, approximately the size of a pencil eraser.
๐ Evolving: The mole changes rapidly in colour, size, shape, or appearance.
If you notice any signs under the ABCDE rule, consult a doctor promptly for melanoma screening.
2. A Wound That Does Not Heal
๐ An open sore or ulcer that does not heal within four weeks
๐ A lesion that bleeds easily or repeatedly develops and loses a scab
๐ These signs are commonly associated with squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma.
3. An Unusual Bump, Rash, or Growth
๐ A clear, pearly, or shiny bump may indicate basal cell carcinoma.
๐ A red, rough, or scaly bump may indicate squamous cell carcinoma.
๐ A red, itchy, or burning rash that does not improve with topical treatment should be medically assessed.
4. A Spot or Growth That Changes
๐ It becomes raised or increases rapidly in size.
๐ It bleeds easily or repeatedly forms a scab.
๐ It becomes itchy, painful, or causes a burning sensation.
5. Unusual Changes in Skin Colour
๐ An area of skin becomes noticeably darker.
๐ Some spots appear paler than the surrounding skin.
๐ Certain abnormal colour changes may be associated with melanoma.
When Should You See a Doctor?
๐ A mole or dark spot changes in colour, size, or shape.
๐ A wound does not heal within four weeks.
๐ An unusual bump, rash, or growth does not respond to general treatment.
๐ The skin bleeds without an obvious cause or becomes itchy or painful.
If you notice an abnormal mole, a persistent wound, a changing lump or growth, or unusual skin discolouration, consult a doctor for skin cancer screening as soon as possible. Early detection can improve the likelihood of successful treatment.
Reference :
Targeted Therapy Cancer Center
Share this article
More Articles
Discover more insights on health care and medical tourism.
All Types of Stem Cells: Comparing Their Properties, Applications, and Limitations
Stem cells are specialised cells capable of multiplying through self-renewal and developing into specialised cell types through differentiation, including skin, muscle, bone, and blood cells.
Which HPV Types Are the Most Dangerous?
Human papillomavirus, or HPV, includes more than 200 different types. These are generally classified as low-risk and high-risk types, some of which may lead to cervical cancer.
Why Should Blood Draws Be Avoided on the Arm After Breast Surgery?
Blood draws and blood pressure measurements are often avoided on the arm on the same side as previous breast surgery, especially when lymph nodes under the arm have also been removed or treated.