Skin CancersMost moles develop later in life, but some people are born with moles. Very large moles that have been present since birth do have an increased risk of transforming into melanoma over time. The development of a new mole or any changes in the size, color, shape or texture of a mole may be a sign of skin cancer, and should be reported to your dermatologist right away. Melanomas can develop anywhere on the body, even in places that are not exposed, such as the soles of you feet or even your nails.

There is no need to panic. Non-melanoma skin cancer is not necessarily life-threatening, nor does its therapy have to be disfiguring; however if left untreated, the disease can continue to progress. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatments are of great importance.

Even though there is a strong correlation between ultraviolet radiation from the sun and all types of skin cancer, you can still develop skin cancer even if you stay out of the sun. Always be sure each month to check your skin for any new or changing lesions.

Basal Cell CarcinomaBasal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and represents 80% of new skin cancers. This type is rarely life-threatening and does not usually spread. A pre-disposition to basal cell carcinoma can be inherited, but these lesions usually occur in patients that have had repeated sun exposure. Patients that develop basal cell cancer have a 60% chance of developing another one within the next 5 years. This is why regular and annual skin screenings are important. Basal cell carcinoma may appear as a red, flesh colored or pearly bump, or may have the appearance of an ulcer.

Squamous Cell CarcinomaSquamous Cell Carcinoma is another common type of skin cancer that is rarely life-threatening when caught early. It represents about 16 percent of new skin cancers and is found most often in people with fair complexions. This type may develop from actinic keratosis, which is a pre-cancer that tends to be a red and scaly lesion on sun damaged skin. Actinic keratosis can often range in size from a pencil eraser to the size of a coin and form on all sun-exposed areas if the body. Squamous cell carcinoma can appear as a red bump, or may have the appearance of an ulcer.

Malignant Melanoma Malignant Melanoma represents about four percent of newly diagnosed skin cancers. It is the most serious form of skin cancer and can be deadly. However, if treated while it is in it's early stages the cure rate is about 95 percent. If is allowed to grow it can be fatal. This cancer usually stems from a mole that has been present for many years. If you have a mole that increases in size or changes in color, you should have it examined immediately. Malignant Melanoma may also appear as a dark irregular pigmented patch.

The ABCD’s of MelanomaLook for Danger Signs in Pigmented Lesions of the Skin
Consult your dermatologist immediately if any of your moles or pigmented spots exhibit:

A

B

C

D

A. Asymmetry: one half unlike the other half. 

B. Border: irregular, scalloped or poorly circumscribed border.

C. Color: varied from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes white, red or blue.

D. Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6mm in diameter (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller. If you notice a mole different from others, or which changes, itches, or bleeds (even if it is small) you should see your dermatologist.

-Brought to you by the American Academy of Dermatology.