What Are the Signs of Skin Cancer?
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center・2 minutes read
Nonmelanoma skin cancers like basal and squamous cell carcinomas show up as pink macules or papules with distinct characteristics, while individuals can use the ABCDEF method to spot concerning pigmented lesions by looking for specific signs like asymmetry, irregular borders, and color changes. It's essential to recognize unique or unusual spots that stand out from other skin lesions to ensure early detection and appropriate treatment.
Insights
- Basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, two common nonmelanoma skin cancers, can be identified by their distinct appearances and symptoms, such as pink macules, papules, or bloody bumps, emphasizing the importance of recognizing these signs early to seek medical attention promptly.
- The ABCDEF method, focusing on asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, increased diameter, and evolving characteristics, serves as a valuable tool for individuals to differentiate concerning pigmented lesions from benign spots, underscoring the significance of vigilance in monitoring and identifying potentially harmful skin changes.
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Recent questions
What are nonmelanoma skin cancers?
Nonmelanoma skin cancers include basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, appearing as small pink macules or papules.
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Summary
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Identifying Skin Cancer Through Visual Cues
- Nonmelanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, present as small pink macules or papules that may be flat or minimally bumpy, with basal cell carcinomas appearing bright pink or pearly white, while squamous cell carcinomas can manifest as patches or bloody bumps on the skin, potentially causing pain, itching, or a burning sensation. To identify concerning pigmented lesions, individuals should look for asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, increased diameter, and evolving or changing characteristics, utilizing the ABCDEF method, with a focus on recognizing unique or "funny" spots that differ significantly from other skin lesions.
