The appearance of a white cancer spot on the skin is often very similar to a normal growth or pimple, but there are some important differences between a benign cell carcinoma (BCC) and a true cancer. The BCC is usually a single color, although it may vary in some areas and be lighter or darker elsewhere. BCCs are usually red or pink, although some can be brown. They look like a tiny bump and are smooth to the touch. The BCC on the lower eyelid can resemble a sore or wart on one area of the skin, while it may look like a wart on another. A BCC can also change in size over time, making it very difficult to treat.
It is crucial to recognize a cancerous growth on the skin immediately. The cancerous cells on the skin can travel throughout the body to distant organs. The cancer cells move through the bloodstream and lymphatic system, growing into new tumors in distant parts of the body. Once this occurs, the primary cancer is known as malignant melanoma, which can spread to the lungs. A cancerous white spot on the skin can be a symptom of other forms of cancer.
If the cancerous growth is persistent or oozing, it is best to consult a doctor immediately. The appearance and symptoms of this skin lesion should be discussed with your physician, who will examine the skin lesion and any other suspicious moles or lymph nodes. During the appointment, the doctor may also perform a complete physical exam to determine if the growth is indeed a cancerous growth. The doctor may recommend removing the growth, which could be painful, but if the lesion is small, additional treatment is required.
In addition to this, a person may experience a scaly or waxy growth on their skin. This growth can be difficult to differentiate from normal skin, especially when it appears on parts of the body exposed to sunlight. However, if the skin is shiny and scaly, it may be a squamous cell cancer. The squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive than basal cell cancer, and it can spread to other parts of the body.
While overexposure to the sun may contribute to the formation of skin cancer, sunspots do not indicate the presence of cancer. Another skin disorder caused by a fungus overgrows out of control and causes dry itchy patches of skin that are either lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. This condition is more likely to develop when a person is already sun-tanned. It is also more likely to appear in warm and humid environments.
If you notice a white spot on the skin, consult a dermatologist immediately. It may be a sign of another condition, like idiopathic guttate hypomelanotic, or it could be an infection causing a white spot. A physician can determine the cause of the white spot on your skin and suggest a course of treatment if it is cancer. There are also other types of white spots on the skin that are not cancer, such as worms or fungus.
