Recognizing skin cancer
Basal and
squamous cell carcinomas can vary widely in appearance. The cancer may begin as
small, white or pink nodule or bumps; it can be smooth and shiny, waxy, or
pitted on the surface. Or it might appear as a red spot that's rough, dry, or
scaly...a firm, red lump that may form a crust...a crusted group of nodules...a
sore that bleeds or doesn't heal after two to four weeks...or a white patch that
looks like scar tissue.
Malignant melanoma is usually signaled by a change in the size, shape, or color
of an existing mole, or as a new growth on normal skin. Watch for the "ABCD"
warning signs of melanoma: Asymmetry-a growth with unmatched halves; Border
irregularity-ragged or blurred edges; Color-a mottled appearance, with shades of
tan, brown, and black, sometimes mixed with red, white, or blue; and Diameter- a
growth more than 6 millimeters across (about the size of a pencil eraser), or
any unusual increase in size.
If all these variables sound confusing, the most important thing to remember is
this: Get to know your skin and examine it regularly, from the top of your head
to the soles of your feet. (Don't forget your back.) If you notice any unusual
changes on any part of your body, have a doctor check it out.
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Basal cell carcinoma may come in many forms. It often begins as a small, pearly nodule. |
Squamous cell carsinoma may begin as a red, scaly patch, a group of crusted nodules, or a sore that doesn't heal. |
Malignant melanoma is often asymmetrical, with blurred or ragged edges and mottled colors. |
