While moles and skin lesions may be harmless, natural parts of the body, changes in their appearance can sometimes be an early warning sign of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. According to Dr. Juan Pinto of U.S. Dermatology Partners Houston Medical District, “Skin cancers, including melanoma, are highly treatable when they’re diagnosed early. That’s why it’s so important for patients what changes to look for in their moles and skin lesions that could require professional evaluation from a dermatologist.” In this blog, Dr. Pinto discusses the most noticeable signs of a cancerous mole, treatment and prevention options, and the importance of annual skin cancer screenings.
How to Know If a Mole Is Cancerous
Dr. Pinto says, “Patients don’t need to diagnose skin cancer themselves, but they should know the warning signs that may indicate a mole needs to be evaluated. There is no single feature that confirms whether a mole is cancerous, but changes in size, shape, color, or other characteristics can be concerning. The ABCDEs of melanoma provide a helpful guide for identifying potential warning signs. If patients notice changes in an existing mole, a new suspicious growth, or anything else concerning, they should schedule a diagnostic exam with their dermatologist.”
The ABCDEs of Melanoma
ABCDE is an acronym for some of the most common melanoma warning signs. Specifically, it stands for:
- A – Asymmetry – part of a mole looks different from the other part.
- B – Border – the outside edges of a lesion are uneven, blurred, or poorly defined.
- C – Color – a lesion that has multiple colors, uneven pigmentation, or it’s shaded differently than similar lesions.
- D – Diameter – larger than the size of a pencil eraser (6 millimeters). Some cancerous lesions do stay small, but larger moles and lesions are usually a sign for concern.
- E – Evolving – any changes in the size, shape, color, texture, or any other characteristic of an existing mole or lesion could be a warning sign of skin cancer.
Other Skin Cancer Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Characteristics of suspicious moles and lesions may not always fall under the ABCDEs. Some additional skin cancer warning signs you should tell your dermatologist about include:
- Moles that itch, burn, hurt, or are tender to the touch.
- Lesions that bleed, ooze, or crust over without apparent cause.
- Moles that suddenly stick out further or look inflamed.
- Dark streaks beneath fingernails and toenails or in the surrounding nailbeds.
- New moles that appear in adulthood.
- “Ugly duckling” moles that don’t look like existing moles.
Why Annual Skin Cancer Exams Matter
The most important reason for annual professional skin cancer exams is simple. The earlier skin cancer is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. In fact, The Skin Cancer Foundation’s research shows that early-stage melanoma caught during a skin cancer exam has a 99% five-year survival rate after treatment. Once melanoma spreads, it’s more difficult to treat. The same is true for all types of skin cancer. Additionally, annual exams can allow proper diagnosis before visible symptoms develop since dermatologists are trained to identify subtle changes that most patients would miss. Annual exams also allow your dermatologist to establish a baseline, so they notice right away when something has changed.
What Happens During a Skin Cancer Screening?
Receiving an annual skin cancer screening is essential, but what happens during these visits? According to Dr. Pinto, “Many patients may put off their skin cancer screening because they don’t know what to expect or feel uneasy with the idea of a full body exam. I completely understand. During every visit, I take the time to explain each step of the process and answer any questions so patients feel comfortable and informed. While a full-body exam does involve looking closely at areas that may feel personal, it’s important for patients to know that I am approaching the exam from a clinical and non-judgmental perspective. My goal is to help patients feel comfortable while making sure we identify any concerning changes as early as possible.” To help patients understand what to expect during an annual skin cancer screening, Dr. Pinto outlines the basic steps below:
- Review of medical history and potential skin cancer risk factors.
- Thorough, full-body skin examination.
- Careful evaluation of any concerning moles or lesions.
- Discussion of areas that need to be monitored during at-home skin exams.
- Photography of suspicious lesions to be monitored (when appropriate).
How Dermatologists Diagnose a Cancerous Mole
The diagnosis process for skin cancer may include a combination of:
- Visual and manual examination – the dermatologist will assess the size, shape, color, texture, and other characteristics of new or irregular moles and lesions.
- Dermoscopy – using magnification tools to more closely examine irregular areas.
- Mole biopsy – an in-office procedure where the dermatologist takes a small tissue sample from a suspicious mole and sends it to a pathology lab for more advanced diagnostics.
What If a Mole Is Cancerous?
If a dermatologist determines a mole is cancerous, they will recommend some form of skin cancer treatment. In the earliest stages, skin cancer is often treatable by removing the cancerous tissue to prevent spread. In later stages, dermatologists often partner with oncologists, doctors who specialize in cancer treatment, for a more comprehensive approach to cancer care. Depending on the stage of the cancerous lesions, dermatologists may recommend:
- Surgical removal.
- Mohs surgery.
- Additional treatments, such as radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or other medications, when appropriate.
When Should You Schedule a Dermatology Appointment?
Any time you’re concerned about skin health or changes in skin’s appearance, don’t hesitate to contact a dermatologist for support. It’s essential that you schedule a visit with your dermatologist if you notice any of the following:
- Lesions that display any of the ABCDEs of melanoma.
- New or changing skin lesions.
- Lesions that look or feel different from others.
- Any time something new is spotted during a self-check, especially if you’re at higher risk.
When in Doubt – Let Your Dermatologist Help You Figure It Out
In conclusion, Dr. Pinto says, “It never hurts to schedule a dermatologist skin exam if you notice something new or changing during a self-exam. If you have any doubts or concerns, visit your dermatologist. Even if it turns out to be nothing major, at least you have a clear answer and plan of action when needed.”
Schedule a Professional Dermatology Exam
Scheduling annual skin cancer screenings and performing regular at-home checks are your first lines of defense against skin cancer. If you spot something unusual, schedule a dermatology consultation right away. To get started working with U.S. Dermatology Partners, take a moment to contact our team through our quick online scheduling request form.
Find a location near me
or
