What Does Skin Cancer Look Like in its Early Stage?
Dr. Robert Nossa | 01/11/2022
As we all know, long-term exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer. While most people are vigilant about applying sunscreen and avoiding tanning beds, there are other ways to protect our health. Today, the skin specialists at Contemporary Dermatology discuss common early warning signs of cancer so you can recognize them and seek treatment as soon as possible.
Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer in the U.S., but it can be treated successfully when caught early. This includes melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Call to meet with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Robert Nossa in Marstons Mills, MA. Our dermatology staff is dedicated to helping patients near Cape Cod, Falmouth, Provincetown, or Southern Massachusetts manage their skin cancer risks.
What are the different kinds of skin cancer?
Skin cancer is any cancer that originates in the skin. These cancer cases are usually classified as melanoma or non-melanoma based on their behavior and appearance:
Melanoma: Begins in the skin cells that create pigment (the melanocytes). Melanoma can grow into nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
Actinic keratoses (AK): Found in areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun. AKs appear as dry or scaly skin.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Can develop anywhere on the body and may appear as a pink or flesh-colored bump.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): Forms on skin that gets the most sun exposure. SCC may appear scaly or patchy, or develop into sores that frequently reopen.
What are some early warning signs of skin cancer?
It's important to recognize when your skin appears irregular. If you discover a new growth or sudden change to a current skin lesion or mole, make an appointment with a skin specialist or dermatologist. We can perform a skin evaluation and develop a treatment plan with you.
Dr. Nossa has compiled a list of early warning signs of skin cancer for patients in Cape Cod and Southern Massachusetts – from Falmouth to Provincetown and everywhere in-between:
Change in mole size, shape, or color: Normal moles are symmetrical and have an even shape and color.
Change in skin texture: Some cancers can cause the skin to become rough, scaly, or crusty.
Irritated or painful skin: Skin cancers may cause different sensations, like chronic itching or burning.
Bleeding or oozing: Skin cancers can appear as wounds that won't heal, develop into sores or blisters, or bleed.
The sudden appearance of dark spots or lesions: Signs of melanoma may appear without warning, especially if they're on a sun-exposed area, such as the face or arms.
How is skin cancer diagnosed?
Our skin specialists rely on a number of diagnostic tools to determine if your issue is cancer. Dr. Nossa may perform a simple biopsy to extract cells from the affected area and have them analyzed by a lab. Treatment is based on the size, location, and type of skin cancer found. Rest assured that we thoroughly explain your diagnosis and treatment plan, so you understand the process.
Know the signs of skin cancer
Skin cancer detection can be difficult if you don't know what to look for. If you think you notice any of the previous warning signs of melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancers, call Contemporary Dermatology to schedule an evaluation. The sooner we find and treat cancerous lesions, the more likely we can expect a positive outcome. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Robert Nossa is dedicated to early detection and has helped countless patients near Cape Cod and Southern Massachusetts through the process.