Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, with an estimated one in five Americans affected during their lifetime. It often begins subtly and may not cause significant symptoms at first.
“Most skin cancers don’t hurt, and they don’t usually cause dramatic symptoms,” said Dr. Kelvin Allenson, an oncologist at Houston Methodist. “That’s why awareness and regular self-checks are so important. Knowing what’s normal for your skin is the best way to catch potential problems early.”
The primary warning sign of skin cancer is a change on the skin, such as a new growth or a sore that does not heal. Other signs include a new mole or changes in an existing mole, persistent sores that bleed or crust over, patches of discolored skin, or flat pink/red or brown bumps resembling scars.
Dr. Allenson noted that skin cancer can appear on any part of the body and affect people of all skin tones. On darker skin, it may present as dark bumps or patches in areas not regularly exposed to sunlight.
“Changes can occur anywhere, such as between your toes, on your genitals and even inside your mouth,” Dr. Allenson said. “If something on your skin just looks or feels off — even if it’s not painful — get it checked.”
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. BCC typically appears as a shiny bump; SCC may look like a firm red lump or scaly patch; melanoma often presents as an irregular multicolored mole or dark spot and is more likely to spread than other forms.
Acral lentiginous melanoma is a rare type found on palms, soles, or under nails and is more common among people with dark skin; this form is not generally linked to UV exposure.
It is recommended to consult a doctor if any spot changes appearance, bleeds, becomes itchy, develops anew, or reappears after healing. Some areas are difficult to check without assistance; individuals with many moles, weakened immune systems, or previous history should consider annual full-body exams.
“Don’t discount even minor symptoms,” Dr. Allenson stated. “A lesion that bleeds on its own or a patch that becomes itchy deserves attention.”
To monitor for melanoma specifically, experts recommend using the ABCDE rule:
– Asymmetry: one half unlike the other
– Border: irregular edges
– Color: uneven shades
– Diameter: larger than 6 millimeters
– Evolving: any change over time
“The ABCDE test should be used for screening purposes,” said Dr. Allenson. “If you or your primary care doctor is looking at a mole and can answer yes to any of these questions, this should prompt an evaluation by a dermatologist.”
Diagnosis involves examination—sometimes using specialized tools—and biopsy if needed for confirmation.
“It might be a shave biopsy using a tool similar to a razor blade, or a punch biopsy using a small hollow tool to extract a small core of tissue,” Dr. Allenson explained. “Both are quick, in-office procedures…that allow your doctors to make a definitive diagnosis.”
Treatment depends on cancer type and stage but often involves surgery for early cases; advanced treatments include immunotherapy and chemotherapy when necessary.
“Most skin cancers including basal and squamous cell cancers and melanoma are cured with surgery,” Dr. Allenson said.“Melanoma is the most serious of the skin cancers…Some patients with melanoma…will receive immunotherapy which has dramatically improved survival in patients with more advanced disease.”
Regular self-exams and professional screenings remain essential for early detection.
“Don’t panic about every mole or freckle,” Dr.Allenson advised.”Just stay familiar with your skin,use sun protection,and get checked when something doesn’t look right.Regular screening visits with a dermatologist should be part of your health maintenance…”
