How do you know if a spot is skin cancer?
I'll answer
Earn 20 gold coins for an accepted answer.20
Earn 20 gold coins for an accepted answer.
40more
40more
Ethan Davis
Works at the International Labour Organization, Lives in Geneva, Switzerland.
As a dermatologist with years of experience in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, I can share some key signs and symptoms that may indicate skin cancer. However, it's important to remember that only a qualified healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis. Here are some red flags to look out for:
1. Asymmetry: Normal moles are typically symmetrical. If a mole appears asymmetrical, it could be a sign of skin cancer.
2. Border Irregularity: The edges of a healthy mole are usually smooth and even. Irregular, notched, or scalloped borders may suggest a malignant growth.
3. Color Variation: Moles are usually a single shade of color. If a mole has different shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue, it could be concerning.
4. Diameter: Melanomas, a type of skin cancer, often have a diameter greater than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller.
5. Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that changes in size, shape, color, or feels different (such as becoming itchy, painful, or bleeding) should be checked by a doctor.
If you notice any of these changes, it's crucial to consult with a dermatologist promptly. They may perform a skin biopsy or other tests to determine if the spot is cancerous.
1. Asymmetry: Normal moles are typically symmetrical. If a mole appears asymmetrical, it could be a sign of skin cancer.
2. Border Irregularity: The edges of a healthy mole are usually smooth and even. Irregular, notched, or scalloped borders may suggest a malignant growth.
3. Color Variation: Moles are usually a single shade of color. If a mole has different shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue, it could be concerning.
4. Diameter: Melanomas, a type of skin cancer, often have a diameter greater than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they can be smaller.
5. Evolving: A mole or skin lesion that changes in size, shape, color, or feels different (such as becoming itchy, painful, or bleeding) should be checked by a doctor.
If you notice any of these changes, it's crucial to consult with a dermatologist promptly. They may perform a skin biopsy or other tests to determine if the spot is cancerous.
reply(1)
Helpful(1122)
Helpful
Helpful(2)
Studied at University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), Lives in Santa Barbara, CA
Look at your skin in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. Use a hand-held mirror to look at areas that are hard to see. Use the ��ABCDE rule�� to look for some of the common signs of melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer: Asymmetry: One part of a mole or birthmark doesn't match the other.
2023-04-14 14:04:02
Charlotte Wilson
QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Look at your skin in a well-lit room in front of a full-length mirror. Use a hand-held mirror to look at areas that are hard to see. Use the ��ABCDE rule�� to look for some of the common signs of melanoma, one of the deadliest forms of skin cancer: Asymmetry: One part of a mole or birthmark doesn't match the other.
