Five atypical signs of skin cancer

Contents

Strange birthmarks on the skin
A shiny lump on the skin
Non-healing wound
A scaly skin lesion
Colorful birthmarks
Non-disappearing skin damage

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Proven content

Recently, an increase in skin cancer incidence has been observed. Contrary to appearances, the most common cancer of this type is not melanoma, but basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancers found at an early stage are largely curable. The key, however, is regular prevention and control of your skin. What changes to look for and what to pay attention to?

Strange birthmarks on the skin

If you have a lot of birthmarks on your body, you should have them checked regularly. Any changes to already existing moles should be consulted with a doctor. The so-called ABCDE method. If there are changes to the mole, such as:

A – asymmetry, that is, changing the shape to asymmetrical
B – uneven and jagged edges,
C – color change, lightening or darkening, uneven color within the stigma
D – change of size (diameter), birthmark over 6 mm in diameter
E – progressive changes within the birthmark, i.e. evolution,

consult a dermatologist. The term “skin cancer” includes not only melanoma, but also basal cell carcinoma, papillary carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. What skin changes should you pay attention to?

A shiny lump on the skin

A pearly-shaped lump that has a smooth and shiny surface may be a symptom of basal cell carcinoma of the skin. It is one of the most common cancers of this organ. It develops slowly and rarely metastasizes. It is usually diagnosed in the elderly.

A lump usually appears on the face – on the forehead, around the eyes and nose, and on the back. It can rarely be located on the legs or arms.

This change may be confused with, for example, a mosquito bite. However, if it does not disappear for a long time, it is worth showing it to the doctor.

This is what skin cancer looks like. Symptoms that must worry you

Non-healing wound

Basal cell carcinoma may also present as a small, shallow ulcer. Usually it looks like a small wound that becomes covered with a crust, which after some time falls off and a new one appears in its place. Most often it appears on the face or torso.

If we find that a wound does not heal for several weeks, this may be cause for concern. It is worth consulting a dermatologist or oncologist.

A scaly skin lesion

Peeling skin is usually nothing to worry about. It appears as an eczema residue, it can also be caused by dryness. Usually, however, after the use of cosmetic procedures, the skin regenerates and there is no trace of peeling. A scaly lesion may be a cause for concern, which not only does not disappear but may also increase in surface area.

Such a change may be a symptom of basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma.

Colorful birthmarks

Particular attention should be paid to the birthmarks, the so-called “Moles” in red, purple and blue. Even if they are regular in shape, they can turn into cancerous lesions over time. It is worth checking them regularly in a dermatological office.

These people are most at risk of developing melanoma

Non-disappearing skin damage

Any damage to the skin, whether as a result of a bite, cut or impact, should disappear over time. The regeneration time of the skin depends on many factors, but sooner or later the wound should disappear. If this is not the case, it is cause for concern.

Skin cancers, although they are more and more common, can be successfully treated. It is worth checking your skin prophylactically to detect disturbing changes in time.