SKIN CANCER SIGNS

Skin tumour generally is seen on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sunlight. This would include the face, the neck, the lips, the chest, the scalp, the arms, the ears, and the hands. Women are prone to get skin tumour on their legs, as they are often exposed especially during the summer months. This is not to say that areas that are not exposed do not develop skin cancer, as this can also occur. Skin cancer can develop even under your fingernails. No skin tone or color is exempt from developing skin tumour. A lesion can take either the course of slow or fast development. It can vary depending on the type of cancer that one has.

The signs of a person that are stricken with melanoma generally develop lesions that are shiny, bubble shaped and hard in texture. They can also have a mole-like appearance, which can bleed, change size, shape, texture, or color. They can be in the form of a large spot, often brown in color. These can sometimes be flecked with a darker color. It is also wise to take note of any type of growth that is irregularly shaped especially around the edges and blue, black tinged with blue, white or red. This type of melanoma is often seen on the trunk of the body, the arms or the legs. This is the most serious type of skin tumour and most likely to result in death. Men tend to develop melanoma on the neck, the head, and the trunk of the body.

Squamous cell carcinoma sufferers develop lesions that appear reddened and firm appearing most likely on the hands, neck, arms, lips, ears, and face. Their symptoms can also take on the appearance of a flattened lesion. This is often seen with crusting and scaling and affecting the same areas with the exception of the lips. Squamous cell carcinoma spreads more rapidly than basal cell carcinoma. However, if found early on it is easily treated.

The signs of skin cancer in a person afflicted with basal cell carcinoma, the most well-known form of skin tumour, are flat, skin colored or brownish appearing lesions. These lesions normally resemble a scar. They are prone to affect the areas of the back and the chest. Basal cell carcinoma can also take on the form of a bump, waxy or pearly in appearance. These type of lesions generally are seen on the neck, the ears, or the face. Basal cell carcinoma does not spread as easily as other types of skin tumour. They are easily treatable and the outcome is favorable.

If you have a suspicious area on your skin, especially a mole that changes in appearance, see your doctor as soon as possible for proper evaluation. You may just be saving your life.

Related Topics