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Symptoms of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer symptoms may vary from person to person. People at risk for skin cancer are encouraged to do a regular skin self-examination of the entire body, including the throat, ears, soles of feet, back - everything.
Search for:
- Oddly shaped, colored, or changing moles
- Unusual white, reddish or brown patches that feel different than the skin around them (can be hard, scaly, rough or crusted)
- Pinkish red or flesh-colored raised areas that feel unusual (hard, scaly, ulcerated, or rough)
- A sore that doesn't heal
Most skin cancer develops in areas of your body that have been exposed to the sun, but some types of skin cancer can strike anywhere. If you are concerned, the best thing to do is make an appointment with your doctor or health care professional immediately. They can evaluate your skin, make recommendations and let you know if there is an area you need to watch.
Screening and Diagnosis for Skin Cancer
Individuals at risk for skin cancer are encouraged to check their skin regularly for changes. Skin changes are the most common warning sign of skin cancer. For information on how to examine your skin, visit the National Cancer Institute Website. Use the ABCDs to learn the warning signs for melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer:
- Asymmetry - Look for moles that change shape or become asymmetrical (one half is different than the other).
- Border - Watch for moles that are uneven, blurred, or lumpy around the edges.
- Color - It's normal for moles to be a solid brown color. A mole that turns a different shade of brown or black may be a sign of skin cancer.
- Diameter - If a mole is growing, or is larger than the head of a pencil eraser, consult your doctor.
Asymmetry Exam
Be on the lookout for moles that change shape or become asymmetrical.
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Normal
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Irregular
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Irregular
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Border Exam
Be on the lookout for moles that become uneven or lumpy around the edges.
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Normal
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Irregular
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Irregular
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Color Exam
Be on the lookout for moles that turn different shades of brown or black.
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Normal
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Irregular
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Irregular
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Diameter Exam
Be on the lookout for moles that becomes larger than the head of a pencil eraser.
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Normal
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Irregular
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Irregular
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If a person has skin changes such as those listed above, he or she should check with a doctor. When diagnosed early, most skin cancers can be cured. If skin cancer is suspected, a physician will remove all or part of the suspicious area to check it for cancer cells. Visit the National Cancer Institute for more information about skin cancer or melanoma.
Last updated on 02/25/2005 11:08 pm.
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