Board-certified cardiologist and dermat reveals 10 signs of skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide, but fortunately, the rate of successful treatment increases significantly when it is diagnosed in its earliest stages. The ability to recognize warning signs will enable you to catch it before it spreads or gets worse. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jeffrey Nesbell and board-certified cardiologist Dr. Evan Levine share below some critical skin cancer signs to look for.

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Symptoms and signs of basal and squamous cell carcinoma

These two are the most frequent types of skin cancer and usually appear on sun—exposed skin, though not exclusively. The first five signs to watch for include:




1. Sores that bleed and not heal: Long-standing wounds that crust over and bleed may indicate either basal or squamous cell carcinoma. A sore that disappears then later returns also could be a warning sign.

2. Pearly or Waxy bumps: Basal—cell carcinoma often consists of small, shiny nodules that can appear pearly or have a waxy nature. They sometimes contain visible blood vessels on their surface.

3. A rough or scaly area on the skin: Patches on the skin that exhibit a rough, crusty, or scaly texture—particularly if they appear to be growing or show no signs of improvement over a period of time—could potentially be a sign of squamous cell carcinoma.

5. Scar-like patch: The presence of thickened and hardened patches on the skin can create an appearance reminiscent of scars. It is important to note, however, that these patches have never actually been caused by any preceding injury. This characteristic is often indicative of an aggressive form of basal cell carcinoma.

Warning signs of Melanoma:

While melanoma is less common, it is unfortunately far more dangerous, as it can spread quickly if left undetected. Warning signs often follow the “ABCDE” mnemonic:

1. Asymmetry: One half of a mole or spot does not match the other half in shape or color

2. Border Irregularity: Edges are not smooth but instead jagged, scalloped, or poorly defined.

3. Variation in Coloration: There may be several shades of brown, black, and even red and pink within one lesion.

4. Diameter larger than 6 Millimeters: The size of a pencil eraser or larger, larger moles need closer observation.

5. Evolving Nature: The most important warning signs include changes in size, shape, or color of a mole, or the development of new symptoms such as itching or bleeding.

One important guideline to keep in mind is to be vigilant for the 'Ugly Duckling' sign, which refers to the situation where a mole appears to be notably different from your other moles in terms of its size, shape, or color characteristics. It is crucial to note that while not every irregularly shaped mole poses a threat, any new spot that shows changes or stands out in an unusual manner should certainly prompt a visit to a dermatologist for professional evaluation. Early detection through monitoring such warning signs can significantly improve outcomes in the prevention and treatment of skin cancers.

When to see a doctor

Not every growth that fulfills these criteria is necessarily cancerous; however, if you happen to notice any new growths or moles that remain unchanged, or even those that exhibit any of the changes mentioned above, it is crucial that you seek the expertise of a medical professional for a thorough skin examination. The most effective way to protect yourself from the severe health risks associated with skin cancer is through the remarkable advantage of early detection. Regular self-checks and annual dermatologist visits can make all the difference in catching problems before they become dangerous.

Setting up regular skin self-checks, wearing sun protection, and consulting a dermatologist when suspicious lesions arise can save lives. Remember, it's better to have a spot checked and be reassured than to delay and risk progression of the condition, that can often be fatal.


Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It does not replace a consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek guidance from a doctor before trying any new remedy, especially if you have an existing health condition, are pregnant, or are on medication.