Can You Spot Skin Cancer?
One of the main reasons people seek out treatment from a dermatologist is to get answers to questions about concerns like skin cancer. Skin cancer is serious, and it is important to seek a dermatologist if you think that something could be wrong.
Do you have questions about skin cancer? This is what you should know.
1. Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, and it begins in the basal cells. This form of cancer is most commonly found in parts of the body that are frequently exposed to the skin. So, you may experience this form of skin cancer on the face, shoulders, neck, arms, and legs.
The symptoms of basal cell carcinoma include bumps on the skin, especially when they look similar to wax- or pearl-colored flesh. In some cases, basal cell carcinoma manifests in scabbing or bleeding areas. You may also note blood vessels stemming from the area.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is more serious than basal cell carcinoma, but it is less common. This form of cancer is like basal cell carcinoma in that it develops most commonly in areas that get a lot of sunlight. Squamous cell carcinoma often results in rough patches of red skin that might even look like scales. You might also notice bleeding or crusting of the skin as well as raised lumps.
3. Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer. Melanoma grows dangerously, often through moles on the body. Melanoma can look a lot like a mole, and you should understand how to spot the symptoms of melanoma. Melanoma develops in areas that are exposed to the skin as well as those that are not. Melanoma can manifest differently in men and women, so it is important to know what to look for.
You can spot melanoma by looking for the signs, like asymmetry and irregular borders on moles. Melanoma may appear as a mole that is discolored, large in diameter, and changing over time. A mole that does not look like a relative to your other moles can indicate that something could be wrong.
See a Dermatologist
If you think you have cancer, you should seek assistance through a dermatology clinic. A dermatologist will look at your skin and moles and help you determine what steps you should take next. Make an appointment today to learn more.
