Skin cancer is usually noticed by changes in the skin’s appearance. However, basal cell carcinoma can be difficult to notice, since it can appear to be a noncancerous skin condition such as psoriasis or eczema. Therefore, it is important to recognize the warning signs of basal cell carcinoma. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see a dermatologist to determine if you do have skin cancer.
How our dermatologists determine basal cell carcinoma
One of the most common signs of basal cell carcinoma is a sore that bleeds, oozes or crusts over and eventually begins to heal only to repeat the process and never seems to heal.
A second very common sign is a persistent patch of skin that may be red or pink in color. It can most commonly be found on the upper part of the body such as the face, chest and shoulders or the extremities. The texture may be crusted and can be accompanied with pain and irritation or it may cause no pain at all.
A third warning sign is a lump that is shiny and can range in color from pink to dark brown. It can be confused with a regular mole.
A fourth sign of this type of skin cancer is a bump that is pink in color with a raised border and an indented center with crusting. Small blood vessels develop on top of the growth as it enlarges.
A fifth sign is a scar-like area that has irregular borders and can range from white to yellow to waxy in color. The skin is shiny and taut. This can indicate that the basal cell carcinoma is advanced and has become invasive.
Basal cell carcinoma is easily treated in its early stages. However, it can be difficult to determine if a mole or patch of skin is cancerous as it may look like other less serious skin conditions. If there is any doubt at all, one should seek the advice of a dermatologist.