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Five Lesser-Known Skin Cancer Symptoms to Watch For Early Detection
Cancer
Tue Nov 26 2024
As skin cancer rates continue to climb, awareness of both common and lesser-known symptoms has become critical for early diagnosis. Most people recognise changes in moles—irregular shapes, multi-coloured tones, or larger sizes—as potential indicators of melanoma, the most aggressive form of skin cancer. However, symptoms can be more subtle and extend beyond the skin’s surface, often making them easier to overlook. By familiarizing yourself with five lesser-known signs of skin cancer, you can potentially identify warning signs early, improving the odds of successful treatment.
Common Misunderstood Signs of Melanoma and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer
1.Scaly, Wart-Like Patches Often mistaken for dry skin or warts, scaly patches with a rough texture can be an early indicator of non-melanoma skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma. These patches may be brown or red and typically feel abrasive or dry, persisting despite moisturizing efforts.
2.Irritated or Itchy Areas Skin that feels persistently itchy or irritated, resembling eczema or an allergic reaction, can signal basal cell carcinoma. Such irritation may appear as small red patches that don’t resolve with normal skin treatments, often due to the immune system’s response to cancerous cells.
3.Skin “Crater” or Ulceration Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) often presents as shallow, volcano-like depressions in the skin that may look like open sores with a blood-filled center. These craters, unlike common skin lesions, tend not to heal and may even bleed. SCC typically appears on sun-exposed areas, including the face, neck, and hands, making them easy to miss.
4.Persistent Open Sores Ulcers or open sores that resemble the aftermath of a severe sunburn can indicate non-melanoma skin cancer, particularly if they bleed, scab over, and then re-open. These areas are especially concerning if you are at a high risk for skin cancer, such as due to prolonged sun exposure or previous skin cancer history.
5.Unusual Symptoms Not Directly on the Skin Melanoma, while primarily affecting the skin, can also impact areas beyond the skin’s surface if it spreads. Early symptoms might include headaches or vision changes if it spreads near the head, or shortness of breath if it is close to the lungs. These signs are rare but underscore the importance of consulting a physician if unexplained symptoms arise, especially if they coincide with changes to moles or skin appearance.
Recommended Tests for Early Diagnostics
Early detection remains essential for successful treatment. Regular self-examinations for new or changing skin marks are encouraged, as well as annual skin checks with a dermatologist. For those with high-risk factors, a skin biopsy can provide a conclusive diagnosis if any suspicious areas are detected. Blood tests and imaging scans, such as CT or MRI, may be advised if there is a possibility of cancer spread, particularly with melanoma cases that may not initially appear skin-related.
Preventative measures, such as avoiding tanning beds and protecting the skin with SPF 30 or higher, play a significant role in reducing risk. However, understanding and recognizing these lesser-known signs can aid in catching skin cancer early, contributing to more successful treatment outcomes.
Snippets
● Watch for scaly, wart-like patches.
● Persistent itchiness could be a skin cancer sign.
● “Crater” lesions may indicate squamous cell carcinoma.
● Open sores that don’t heal require medical attention.
● Unusual symptoms beyond the skin could suggest melanoma spread.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/health/five-lesser-known-symptoms-skin-33939235
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