Types of Pre-cancers & Skin Cancer

The basal cell carcinoma is by far the most common type of skin cancer. It presents as a non-healing sore that looks like a 'pearly papule.' It may ulcerate, itch, bleed and tingle. It may ulcerate and then partially heal but it never goes away completely. You will not die from this type, and we get a good cure rate on it. 

A squamous cell carcinoma looks very similar to a basal cell carcinoma. It presents as a crusty, non-healing sore on the face, lip, hand or forearm, or any part of your skin that has a lot of sunlight. Again early diagnosis and treatment are important.

The least common but most aggressive skin cancer is the melanoma. This black mole may itch or bleed and it tends to grow rapidly. It tends to be asymmetrical with an irregular notched border, it has variation in color, and it tends to be bigger than 6mm (just the size of the head of a pencil eraser). Any mole that itches or bleeds should be checked by your dermatologist. Melanomas are readily cured when treated early, but unfortunately there are 7700 deaths in this country every year from melanoma. No one should die from a melanoma in this day and age.

We would be happy to survey your skin for skin cancer on your visit with Dermatology & Laser Associates of Medford.