Key Indicators Of Skin Cancer

Sores

If an individual has noted a lesion on their skin that just does not seem to be healing, it may be a red flag of skin cancer. Why? Well, each form of skin cancer has its specific symptoms that are direct indicators a patient's health care physician makes a note of regarding diagnosis and additional treatment. All too often each of these forms of skin cancer shares one common indicator: sores that seemingly do not heal. If an individual has made a note of a sore on their body, particularly one that appears in an area commonly exposed to the sun, that does not heal within approximately four weeks, they should make an appointment to visit their doctor or dermatologist, who can examine the lesion and recommend the appropriate next steps.

Skin Discoloration

Most individuals are familiar with their skin tone and the way it is supposed to look, which is why they are able to detect abnormal skin discolorations. Individuals who do notice skin discoloration may want to seriously consider consulting a doctor to have them take a close look. Discolored spots on the skin with indistinct and irregular borders should be monitored closely. Pigment spreading from one spot on the skin with redness, swelling, and any additional changes in sensation (itchiness, pain or tenderness, for instance) and in surface appearance (like bleeding, scaliness or oozing), or a red patch on the skin starting to peel or bleed, can all be warning signs of skin abnormalities leading to skin cancer.