Blemishes: An Overview of Kinds and Remedies
Skin cancer is a serious health concern that can be effectively treated if detected early. While it is common for skin cancer to develop in sun-exposed areas, it can appear anywhere on the body. Here's a guide to identifying the signs and symptoms of the three most common types of skin cancer: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) typically manifests as a waxy, whitish, or pink bump, or a flat lesion that may be pink, brown, or flesh-toned. It can also present as a pearly bump, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a pink, scaly patch. Lesions tend to be shiny and may bleed or crust, but grow slowly.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) usually appears as a solid, red bump or a flat lesion with a scaly or crusty texture. It can resemble a pink, scaly patch, wart-like growth, or rough, thickened skin. SCC lesions may bleed, scab, crust, or fail to heal.
Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, can develop anywhere on the body, sometimes in normal skin or from an existing mole. Warning signs include asymmetry, border irregularity, colour variation, diameter, and evolution. A mole that is asymmetrical, has uneven or blurred edges, exhibits multiple colours such as brown, black, red, or blue, is larger than 6mm, or changes in size, shape, or colour, should be evaluated. Melanoma may also be itchy or painful.
General symptoms and warning signs to watch for include a new spot or growth appearing on the skin, an existing mole or spot that changes in size, shape, or colour, a spot that becomes itchy, tender, or painful, a sore that does not heal, bleeds, or forms a crust, a shiny bump, red or skin-coloured, a rough, scaly, or crusty patch that can be felt, a growth with a raised edge and crusting or bleeding centre, a growth resembling a wart, and a scar-like patch with unclear borders.
Early detection is crucial since early-stage cancers are easier to treat. People should see a doctor or dermatologist if they have a skin blemish that takes on any of the aforementioned characteristics. Annual full-body skin exams by a dermatologist are recommended for early detection.
It's important to note that skin cancers can vary greatly in appearance, and not all blemishes are cancerous. Some harmless birthmarks can grow quickly, which can be alarming. Birthmarks can sometimes develop due to blood vessels not forming properly, skin pigment cells clumping together, or an overgrowth of skin.
For persistent acne, a dermatologist may suggest a topical or oral prescription medication. Melasma, a type of hyperpigmentation that can develop during pregnancy or when a person takes birth control pills, is caused by hormonal changes leading to an increase in melanin. Cold sores, highly contagious, should be avoided until they have healed.
In conclusion, vigilance and prompt professional assessment of suspicious skin changes are essential for effective treatment. If in doubt, always consult a healthcare professional.
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