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When skin cells grow in an uncontrolled pattern, skin cancer can develop in the epidermis or deeper layers. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are three common kinds of skin cancer with unique characteristics. Some lesions stay flat, and others form raised areas with uneven borders, crusting, or open skin. A regular record of visible and physical changes gives a clinician clearer information during an examination. Watching for these growths and receiving early treatment is often helpful for positive clinical outcomes.
Changes in Color
A new color within a mole or lesion needs careful attention. Brown, black, red, white, gray, and blue tones may appear together, and the pattern sometimes differs from nearby spots. If a lesion develops uneven pigment or loses pigment in one area, note the day you notice the change, body location, and color. Use the same lighting for each skin check to reduce false comparisons while you’re determining skin changes.
Color often shifts slowly, and small changes may look minor without a record. Keeping track of location and any concerns can often help individuals monitor for skin cancer. Patients should track whether the border around a mole darkens, if the center fades, or whether red or pink expands away from the mole. Monitoring these changes can provide dermatologists with the necessary information for diagnosis and treatment.
Changes in Sensitivity
If a lesion starts to itch, sting, bleed, burn, or feel tender, record the symptom to discuss with a doctor. Sensation might come from friction or irritation, and it can also occur when tissue changes. A dermatologist may recommend that you not scratch, shave over, or pick the area. Noting pain level, bleeding duration, crusting, drainage, and contact with clothing can help a clinician compare symptoms with visual findings.
Changes in Size
A spot may widen across the surface, and a raised area may gain height. Because skin stretches over joints and curved areas, measure from the same angle during each check. If you find a spot that has notably increased in height in a short time, a check with a doctor is strongly recommended.
Diameter alone does not describe growth. When you check the size of an abnormal mole, record the width, height, border shape, and any change in symmetry to give these details to a doctor. Irregular expansion can matter, and a lesion that grows on one edge may look different from a round mole.
If a spot changes after a sunburn, insect bite, acne flare, or shaving cut, wait until the short-term injury clears before comparing size. Healing skin has temporary swelling and color change, which could alter your measurements. Use dates, measurements, and photographs together for abnormal growths, and avoid using memory to track changes. These findings are reviewed during a medical visit along with your personal and family history.
Schedule a Skin Cancer Examination
Consistent monitoring creates a system of organized information to give to a medical professional. If you notice variation in color, size, and sensitivity of a skin abnormality, you should schedule an examination to receive a diagnosis. A proper diagnosis can inform a helpful treatment plan, and systematic monitoring aids in catching symptoms early. Contact a dermatologist to schedule your appointment.
