What are The Signs of Skin Cancer?

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Your skin is your body’s largest organ—let’s protect it together. Contact us today for a Free Consultation.

At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, one of our top priorities is to help our patients stay informed about the health of their skin. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer worldwide, and its rates are rising. But here’s the good news: skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. The key is to know what to look for and when to seek professional care.

Don’t wait—if you’re concerned about a spot on your skin or want peace of mind from a professional skin exam. Schedule an appointment with us today.

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What Is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. The most common types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma, each with its unique characteristics. Early detection of any skin cancer is crucial for effective treatment.

While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors—such as fair skin, frequent sun exposure, a family history of skin cancer, or the use of tanning beds—can increase your risk.

Types of Skin Cancer and Their Warning Signs

Let’s break down the signs of the three most common types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears in areas that receive a lot of sun exposure, such as the face, neck, and hands. While BCC is rarely life-threatening, it can cause significant local damage if not treated.

Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma:

  • Pearly or Waxy Bump: Often mistaken for a mole or pimple that doesn’t heal, BCC often appears as a small, raised bump that can be pearly white or waxy.
  • Flat, Flesh-Colored, or Brown Scar-Like Lesion: This type of BCC may resemble a scar, often with a slightly shiny or waxy surface.
  • Sores That Won’t Heal: If you notice an open sore that heals and then reopens or persists for weeks, it could be BCC.
  • Red, Scaly Patches: These patches might look similar to eczema or psoriasis, but they are persistent and will not improve over time.

BCCs tend to grow slowly, and while they rarely spread to other parts of the body, they can invade surrounding tissues, causing more extensive damage.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer, also linked to UV exposure. It’s more likely than BCC to spread to other body parts if not treated. SCC often appears on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, ears, and back of the hands, but can also develop on scars or sores anywhere on the body.

Signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma:

  • Red, Scaly Patches: These areas may feel rough or crusty and can bleed or scab over, only to return once the scab falls off.
  • Firm, Red Nodules: A raised bump or lump that is firm to the touch and continues to grow over time can indicate SCC.
  • Sores That Don’t Heal: Like BCC, SCC can present as persistent, non-healing sores that might bleed, ooze, or crust.
  • Wart-Like Growths: SCC can also appear as thick, wart-like growths that develop rapidly and are often tender to touch.

SCCs can grow faster than BCCs and may metastasize (spread) to lymph nodes or distant organs if not treated early.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It begins in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, even in places not exposed to the sun, like under fingernails, the soles of the feet, or the mucous membranes. While melanoma is less common than BCC and SCC, it’s more likely to spread to other organs and become life-threatening.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma:

Melanoma often begins in or around moles. Knowing the ABCDEs of melanoma can help you spot warning signs early.

  • A—Asymmetry: If you draw a line through the middle of a mole, both halves should be mirror images. If they aren’t, it’s a sign of concern.
  • B—Border: The borders of melanomas tend to be uneven, ragged, or blurred, while normal moles have smooth, even edges.
  • C—Color: Melanomas are often multicolored, with varying shades of brown, black, pink, red, white, or blue, while benign moles tend to be a single shade.
  • D—Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser), though they can start smaller.
  • E—Evolving: A dermatologist should examine any mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or color or begins to bleed or itch.

Melanoma can spread quickly, making early detection critical. We encourage all our patients to perform regular self-exams and see us for professional skin checks.

Who Is at Risk for Skin Cancer?

While anyone can develop skin cancer, the following factors increase your risk:

  • Sun Exposure: People who spend much time outdoors or in tanning beds have a higher risk.
  • Fair Skin: Individuals with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and red or blonde hair are more prone to skin cancer.
  • A History of Sunburns: A history of severe sunburns, especially in childhood, raises your risk of developing skin cancer.
  • Family or Personal History: Those with a family history of skin cancer or who have had it before are at higher risk.
  • Age: Skin cancer is more common in older adults but can occur at any age.
  • Immune Suppression: Those with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer.

At St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, we recommend that all patients, regardless of risk level, stay vigilant about their skin and come in for routine check-ups.

What Should You Do If You Notice a Concerning Spot?

If you spot something unusual on your skin—a new growth, an evolving mole, or a sore that won’t heal—schedule a consultation with us at St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. Our team of experienced, board-certified dermatologists can provide a thorough examination and, if needed, perform a biopsy to determine if the spot is cancerous.

Our comprehensive skin cancer services include:

  • Full-Body Skin Examinations: Regular skin checks by a professional are essential for early detection.
  • Dermatoscopy: A non-invasive way to see deeper into the skin and spot early signs of cancer.
  • Biopsy and Pathology: A quick in-office procedure to remove suspicious tissue for examination.
  • Advanced Treatment Options: We offer state-of-the-art treatment for all types of skin cancer, including surgical removal, Mohs surgery, and other therapies.

Prevention: How Can You Lower Your Risk?

While certain risk factors are out of your control, there are many ways you can protect yourself from skin cancer:

  • Wear Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even on cloudy days or during the winter.
  • Avoid Tanning Beds: UV rays from tanning beds are as harmful as those from the sun.
  • Seek Shade: Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
  • Cover Up: Wear protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
  • Perform Regular Self-Exams: Once a month, check your entire body for new or changing spots.

Conclusion: Early Detection Saves Lives

Skin cancer is common, but when caught early, it’s highly treatable. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the warning signs and to take action if you notice any unusual changes to your skin. St. Louis Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery is committed to helping you stay on top of your skin health through regular screenings, expert advice, and advanced treatment options.

Don’t wait—if you’re concerned about a spot on your skin or want peace of mind from a professional skin exam, schedule an appointment with us today. Your skin is our specialty, and your health is our priority.

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