First Signs of Skin Cancer

Malignant melanoma accounts for 4% of all skin cancer-related deaths. Early childhood exposure to severe sunburn predisposes the child to skin cancer later in life. Skin cancer is treatable if it's caught early. Monthly body checks are important to find abnormal blemishes, red scaly patches, odd-shaped moles and pimples on the body. Men, especially, should be aware of the high incidence of malignant melanoma on their backs and regular check for changes in appearance in order for successful cancer treatment.

Asymmetry

• Moles that aren't symmetric (same on both sides) but oddly shaped should be further investigated by your physician. Moles that are ragged, blurry or notched are classic signs of skin cancer (malignant melanoma) and warrant immediate attention.

Features

• Multicolored mole or skin blemish that is brown, red white, red speckled or black is a sign of malignant melanoma and is cause for concern. A mole or blemish that is over ¼ inch or 6mm in width presenting one or more of the signs mentioned may be malignant melanoma. Remember the ABCD rule:
  A for Asymmetry (unevenly shaped blemish or mole)
  B for Border (ragged or notched)
  C for Color (see above)
  D for Diameter (1/4 inch or 6mm width)

Identification

• Recognizing common signs of skin cancer is important for early treatment intervention. A sore that won't heal that's filled with yellow pus that may bleed and scab over, break again and fill with pus, is a sign of skin cancer. The sore may look like a pimple or small pink spot to begin with but will not disappear or get better. Immediate attention from your health professional is vital.

Warning

• Basal cell carcinomas appear on parts of the body that have been over-exposed, at some stage in life due to damaging UV rays. These areas of the body include the face, scalp, neck, shoulders, upper back and the chest. The sore may appear to be a pearly gray color if the skin around the carcinoma is stretched.

Significance

• Squamous cell carcinomas appear on the face, the neck, chest and back; the shoulders and upper arms may also be affected. These blemishes may be pink or red in color with scales and may be sore to the touch, they may ooze pus and not heal. Seek professional help immediately.