Dermatologists Offer Preventative and Reactive Care

Outside A Lot And A Weird Spot Is On Your Skin? Get Checked For Skin Cancer

If you are outside a lot and have noticed a weird spot on your skin that has never been there before, you should make an appointment with your doctor. This is especially true if you do not wear sunscreen while you are outside. It could be skin cancer, and finding it early is important. Below is information on different types of skin cancers, and how a doctor tests for them.

Types of Skin Cancer

The most common type of skin cancer and the most treatable is basal cell carcinoma. This often develops in people that have fair skin. If you have this type, it is often pinkish in color, or you may have a bump on your skin that is a light color. It generally takes many years to develop this type of skin cancer. It is most commonly found on the arms, neck, and head, but can also be found on other exposed areas of your body. It is important to treat this early because if not, the cancer will grow and can get deep enough to reach your bones and nerves. 

There is also squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer, which looks like red bumps or scaly patches on your skin. You also may notice a sore that heals and then reappears over and over. This is most commonly found on exposed areas of your body, such as your ears, face, arms, neck, back, and chest. This type of cancer can also grow deep into your skin if not treated early. 

The most dangerous type of skin cancer is known as melanoma. This generally starts in a mole, or a dark spot may suddenly appear on your skin. Melanoma skin cancer is dangerous because it often spreads quickly throughout your body. This can result in getting cancer in other areas of your body. Because of this, as soon as you notice any changes in a mole or areas of your skin you need to make an appointment with your doctor immediately. 

Tests for Skin Cancer

A doctor will do a skin biopsy to determine if you have skin cancer. They will remove the spot and will likely give you a numbing injection before they do. They will try to remove all of it if they can. This is the only way a doctor can know for sure that you have skin cancer.

The doctor will look at the biopsy under a microscope and look for cells that look like cancer. If they are found, they may send the cells to a lab for further testing. You will receive a report telling you the type of skin cancer you have. Your doctor will then come up with the best treatment plan for you. 

Your doctor or a dermatologist can tell you much more about skin cancer.


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