How does skin cancer look? Can I recognize the signs?

cancerSkin cancerCancer diagnosis
Written By Rachel Fisher

Hello, friend.

Are you curious about how skin cancer looks? When you search for information about skin cancer, are you trying to identify a mark on your own skin? In this blog post, we will learn about the appearance of different types of skin cancer, however, while visual cues can be helpful, it's important to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. Let's dive in and empower ourselves with knowledge.

How Does Each Type of Skin Cancer Manifest? Can I Spot the Differences?

Have you ever wondered how different types of skin cancer appear? Let's unravel the distinctive characteristics of each type:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Do you know that BCC often appears as a translucent or pearly bump on the skin? It may have a rolled or waxy edge, and you might notice tiny blood vessels on its surface. Sometimes, it presents as a non-healing sore that crusts or bleeds intermittently.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can you recognize SCC by its scaly, red patch or a thickened, rough, or crusty growth? It might resemble a persistent sore or a wart-like bump that doesn't heal. Keep an eye out for any SCC that develops a central ulceration.

Melanoma: Have you seen an irregularly shaped, dark brown or black spot? Melanoma often exhibits uneven borders, different shades of color within the lesion, or changes in size, shape, or color over time. Pay attention to these visual cues.

Remember, these descriptions provide a general idea, but it's always best to consult a dermatologist for a professional evaluation that takes your unique circumstances into account.

What About Skin Cancer Rashes and Spots? Can I Recognize Them?

Do you know that skin cancer can also present as rashes or spots? It's not just about moles and growths. For example:

Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Have you ever seen a red or pink patch of skin that resembles a rash? This rare and aggressive skin cancer, called Merkel cell carcinoma, can initially appear as such. With time, it may evolve into a raised nodule or a firm, shiny, or pale-colored lump.

Can I diagnose myself with skin cancer pictures?

No. Pictures can serve as educational resources and prompt you to seek professional advice when needed. But a picture alone is NOT ENOUGH to decide if you should make an appointment with a doctor. For one thing, the same type of cancer can look VERY DIFFERENT from person to person. For example, basal cell carcinoma. Check out this link to see sample images on the American Cancer Society website. If you review the images for this type of cancer, you’ll see that some are barely visible while others are dark spots almost like moles. Some are smooth and some are crusty or bleeding.

So how can you tell if a spot on your skin is problematic? The truth is, you can’t because you’re not a dermatologist or oncologist. (Unless you are, in which case I’m not sure why you’re reading this blog post, lol.) If you aren’t sure about a spot or mark or rash on your skin, make an appointment with your dermatologist.

Conclusion:

As you embark on your journey to understand how skin cancer looks, remember that visual cues are not a substitute for professional medical advice.

If a new mark or spot appears on your skin and persists (doesn’t go away in a few days or a couple of weeks as you’d expect from a temporary pimple, rash, or injury like a small cut or scratch), then you should make an appointment with your dermatologist to get their expert review.

Also, if an existing mark or spot on your skin changes in some way—it grows, changes shape, changes color, or oozes or bleeds—you do the same thing. Make an appointment with your dermatologist. Get it checked out.

Can I do anything proactive since I’m not an expert at identifying skin cancer?

Yes. You can get a preventive skin screening with your dermatologist. In addition to getting checked out when you notice a change in your skin, it’s important to schedule a yearly screening with a dermatologist. The doctor will check your skin all over. (Yes. ALL over. You can get skin cancer on ANY part of your skin. Don’t be embarrassed, the dermatologist is a medical doctor and this is what they do.) They will search for anything that looks concerning and take initial biopsy samples if they feel anything needs to be checked. They may also freeze small spots that look problematic using liquid nitrogen to prevent the development of cancer in areas where there is obvious skin damage, usually from the sun. This stings a tiny bit but it’s no big deal.

Early detection and timely intervention play a crucial role in managing skin cancer effectively. Stay vigilant, prioritize your skin health, and empower yourself with knowledge.

Sources:

Rachel Fisher
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