Skin cancer is a condition that affects millions of new lives every year. Being the most prevalent form of cancer in the US, you would be hard pressed to find someone who didn’t at least know another who has battled against this disease.
Dr. Perri is never surprised when residents ask about signs and symptoms of skin cancer. It’s natural to be concerned and want to protect yourself, and thankfully, there are a number of common identifiers that you can be on the lookout for.
Possible Skin Cancer Indicators
With skin cancer, what Dr. Perri (and most dermatologists look for is change. Even small changes in your skin can be warning signs of things to come. While there are several different forms of skin cancer that all present in different ways, there are a number of basic change types to watch for. It’s important to perform regular self-checks or have someone you trust help you check for the following:
- Changes In Moles: most moles are not a cause for concern, but if you observe changes in their size, shape, or color over time, particularly if they become asymmetrical, have multiple colors, have edges that are ragged, irregular or blurred, or grow to a diameter larger than a pencil eraser, you should have them checked.
- Raised Bumps or Nodules: several forms of skin cancer present as raised areas of tissue. Some, as in basal cell carcinoma, appear as pearly or waxy bumps, while others, like in squamous cell carcinoma, present as firm red nodules.
- Flat Lesions: lesions appear as non-raised or barely raised pigmented areas of skin. These can be different depending on the cancer type, but they may be flesh-colored or brown and scar-like, scaly and/or crusty on the surface, dark brown with speckles, or irregularly bordered and having portions that appear red, white, blue, or blue-black.
- Easy Bleeding or Non-Healing: any moles, bumps, or lesions on your skin that bleed easily when touched or scar-like areas or sores that don’t heal can be indicators of skin cancer.
Regular Check-Ups
Early detection is the most important factor in combatting skin cancer. Though self-checks at home are a great way to identify potential threats, skin cancer often initially presents in ways that aren’t recognizable to the untrained eye. Dr. Perri recommends regular skin check-ups at least once a year to make sure you are free of issues.
Perri dermatology has two convenient locations and offers extended hours to work around your busy schedule. Call to schedule your check-up today. We look forward to serving you!
Want to know more about the signs and symptoms of skin cancer? Dermatologist Dr. Anthony J. Perri and his knowledgeable staff can answer all your questions. Call today for your appointment.
