Symptoms of skin cancer are a serious condition to look out for. However, some symptoms of skin cancer are not necessarily related to the disease itself. If you notice any changes on your skin, consult a physician. There are several types of skin cancer, including melanoma, non-melanoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Listed below are some of the common skin cancer symptoms. If you experience any of these, contact a Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center.
A raised bump, pearly appearance, and a red appearance are common signs of basal cell skin cancer. Basal cell cancer can sometimes have small blood vessels, called telangiectasia. It also often presents with a sore. Although not a common form of skin cancer, basal cell cancer is less deadly and can be removed without leaving significant scars. Patients with basal cell cancer should visit a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation.
Radiation therapy is another option. This treatment uses strong beams of energy to destroy the cancer cells and prevent them from growing. External beam radiation is the most common choice for melanoma. Immunotherapy, which works by stimulating the immune system to kill cancer cells, does not damage surrounding healthy tissue. Clinical trials for immunotherapy are also available. In addition to these treatments, people with Stage 3 or Stage 4 melanoma may be eligible for a clinical trial that involves immunotherapy.
Regular sun protection is essential. It’s important to wear a high-factor sunscreen and dress sensibly in the sun. Avoid sunbeds and sunlamps, but also visit your doctor regularly. The earlier you get diagnosed, the better your chances of successful treatment. So, what are the symptoms of skin cancer? You can identify them by the way your skin appears. In most cases, you’ll find a growth that has changed shape. In some cases, it will resemble a mole or a sore that doesn’t heal.
Besides the size and color of the mole, other skin cancer symptoms include asymmetry and uneven edges. You should seek a doctor if you notice a change in color or shape. If your mole has a border, it’s a possible sign of melanoma. It usually grows a quarter-inch in diameter. It’s also important to check for asymmetry and border. Skin cancer symptoms should be taken seriously if they appear on your body for no apparent reason.
The three most common forms of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Melanoma is more serious than basal cell carcinoma and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body. The good news is that most skin cancers can be successfully treated if diagnosed early. In fact, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with over 20 percent of people getting it at some point in their lives. Fortunately, if detected early, many cases are curable.
