As a rule of thumb, Dr. Richard Miller, DO, FAOCD, Board Certified, states that if any spot on your skin changes in size, shape, or color, you need to see a dermatologist. Any spots on your skin that become symptomatic or suddenly change appearance can indicate cancer. If a spot on your skin matches any of the following descriptions, please call and book an appointment with a dermatologist today.
Is it Changing in Appearance?
One of the first signs indicating skin cancer is when a mole begins changing in appearance. Changes in color are often seen in more serious malignant melanomas. You should seek an appointment with your dermatologist as soon as possible after observing any changes to a mole or spot on your skin.
Is it Becoming Symptomatic?
Another sign of a potential growing cancer is when a spot or lesion on your skin becomes symptomatic. You should book an appointment with a dermatologist if a lesion bleeds easily, is not properly healing, is itching, is hurting, or repeatedly comes and goes in the same location.
What Causes Skin Cancer, and What can a Dermatologist do about it?
Ultraviolet light exposure from the sun increases one’s risk of the most common skin cancers. More sun exposure, especially sunburn, will inherently create more risk. Still, that risk can be minimized with the right sunscreen and preventative precautions. If you happen to develop any of the skin cancer indicating symptoms, a dermatologist will bring you in and perform a biopsy. At the time of a biopsy, the provider will clean the affected area, inject it with a small dosage of anesthetic, and remove all or a part of it for testing. Typically, this part of the procedure will not require stitching.
Even if you do not have any of the signs that are mentioned above, if there is a suspicious spot, mole, or lesion on your skin that you are concerned about, call and book an appointment with one of our providers today. Don’t waste your chances because you are unsure; most skin cancers are highly treatable if caught early.
Call us at (727)585-8591 to book an appointment today!
