How can I recognize skin cancer?
February 19, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Ludwig Engel
Dear Doctor,
My name is Tina Heuser and I have a question regarding dermatology. Lately, I have noticed an increase in moles and unusual skin changes on my body, and I am concerned that it could be skin cancer. I have heard that it is important to detect skin cancer early in order to allow for timely treatment. Therefore, I would like to know from you how I can recognize skin cancer.
I have experienced cases of skin cancer in my family, which is why I am particularly worried about my own health. I have also heard about the ABCDE rule, which is supposed to help in detecting skin cancer, but I am unsure if I am interpreting these signs correctly. I have various moles that are asymmetrical and irregular in shape and color, and some of them also have irregular borders. Additionally, some moles have changed recently, becoming larger or changing shape.
I would like to know from you if these signs could indicate skin cancer and if I should be concerned. Are there ways for me to monitor skin changes and detect skin cancer early on my own? Are there specific features or warning signs that I should pay attention to? What steps can I take to regularly examine my skin and identify suspicious changes?
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Sincerely,
Tina Heuser
Dear Mrs. Heuser,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a dermatologist. It is very important to detect changes in the skin early in order to enable timely treatment of skin cancer. I understand that you are concerned, especially due to the family history of skin cancer.
The ABCDE rule is indeed a helpful tool for recognizing signs of skin cancer. Let me explain what you should look out for:
A stands for Asymmetry: If a mole is asymmetrical, meaning if one half of the mole looks different than the other, this can be a warning sign.
B stands for Border: An irregular or blurry border of a mole can also be a clue for skin cancer.
C stands for Color: Moles that have different colors or unusual colors like black, blue, or red should be examined more closely.
D stands for Diameter: Moles larger than 6mm should be looked at more carefully, as larger moles can pose an increased risk for skin cancer.
E stands for Evolution: Changes in the shape, color, size, or symmetry of moles should be carefully monitored.
The changes you described in your moles, especially the asymmetry, irregular borders, color changes, and size changes, are indeed signs that could indicate skin cancer. It is important to have these moles examined by a dermatologist to receive an accurate diagnosis.
To regularly check your skin and identify suspicious changes, I recommend performing self-skin examinations regularly. Use a well-lit room, a mirror, and possibly assistance from someone else to check hard-to-reach areas. Pay attention to the characteristics mentioned above in the ABCDE rule and note any changes to discuss at your next dermatologist appointment.
Additionally, I recommend having regular skin examinations by a dermatologist, especially if you have an increased risk of skin cancer due to family history or personal risk factors.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. Please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to have your skin changes professionally examined.
Sincerely,
Ludwig Engel
