How to identify symptoms of skin cancer?

It's crucial to identify the symptoms of skin cancer early to prevent its spread and increase chances of successful treatment.

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that affects the skin, which is the largest organ in the human body. It occurs when the skin cells mutate and grow abnormally. Skin cancer can be of different types, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

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Symptoms of skin cancer

Here are a few:

Changes in the Skin

The first and most noticeable symptom of skin cancer is a change in the skin. It could be a new growth, a change in an existing mole or spot, or a sore that does not heal.

These changes can occur anywhere on the body but are most likely to occur on areas that are exposed to the sun, like the face, neck, arms, and legs.

Color Changes

Another symptom of skin cancer is a change in the color of the skin. This could be a darkening or lightening of the skin, or the appearance of new colors like red, blue, or black. Skin cancer may also cause pigmentation irregularities, which are often associated with melanoma.

Texture Changes

Skin cancer may also cause changes in skin texture. This could be the appearance of rough, scaly, or crusted patches of skin. These patches may be itchy, painful, or bleed easily.

Irregular Borders

Another symptom of skin cancer is irregular borders. Healthy moles and spots have smooth and even borders, while skin cancer may have irregular, jagged, or blurred borders.

Size Changes

The first noticeable symptom of skin cancer is a change in the skin. (Pic via Pexels/cottonbro studio)

Skin cancer may also cause changes in the size of the affected area. This could be an increase in the size of an existing mole or spot or the appearance of a new growth that's larger than 6 mm in diameter.

Sensitivity to Touch

Skin cancer may cause sensitivity to touch in the affected area. The skin may be tender, itchy, or painful to the touch.

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Early-stage skin cancer

In the early stages, symptoms of skin cancer may manifest like a small bump, a scaly patch, or a new growth that's flesh-colored, pink, or red.

It may also look like a mole or a sore that does not heal. Early-stage symptoms of skin cancer are usually easier to treat, so it's important to get any unusual changes in your skin checked by a dermatologist.

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Skin cancer on the nose

Skin cancer on the nose can be especially dangerous, as it can spread quickly to the eyes, brain, and other facial structures.

Symptoms of skin cancer may include a red, scaly patch on the nose, a bump that bleeds easily, or a sore that does not heal. If you notice any of these symptoms, see a dermatologist as soon as possible.

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Skin cancer on the scalp

Skin cancer can happen on the scalp andis challenging to detect. (Pic via Pexels/Tima Miroshnichenko)

Symptoms of skin cancer on the scalp may appear as a scaly patch, a bump, or a sore that does not heal. It can be challenging to detect, especially if you have a full head of hair.

If you notice any changes in your scalp, like an itchy spot or a mole that's growing, see a dermatologist. They may need to examine your scalp with a special tool called a dermoscopy to get a better look at any suspicious areas.

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Treatment of skin cancer

The treatment of symptoms of skin cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer.

In some cases, prevention of skin cancer is better, and the dermatologist may remove the cancerous tissue with a surgical procedure. Other treatment options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, more aggressive treatments may be necessary.

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Skin cancer is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.

It's essential to be aware of the symptoms of skin cancer and to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your skin. Regular skin check-ups with a dermatologist are also recommended, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or if you spend a lot of time in the sun.

Remember that early detection is the key to successful treatment and a better prognosis.