Signs of Skin Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

Because skin cancer is so common, many people assume it’s not as serious as it is — or can be. While some types of skin cancer are highly treatable, there are a number of extremely serious skin cancer types — including some that can be fatal. There’s no question that regular skin cancer screenings are among the most important tools for early skin cancer detection and risk reduction, but it’s also critical that you know what signs of skin cancer to keep an eye out for between screenings. These can be visible changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of various skin spots, among others. 

At Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mobolaji Opeola performs comprehensive skin cancer screenings to help identify potential issues early and, in the case that skin cancer has already been identified or is diagnosed during screening, specializes in a full range of skin cancer treatments and procedures to help avoid long-term complications and give you the peace of mind you deserve. Keep reading for a helpful review of signs and symptoms of skin cancer you shouldn’t ignore — and what options you have if you’ve received a skin cancer diagnosis. 

What are the most common signs of skin cancer? 

One of the biggest challenges with skin cancer is that it can look very different from person to person. Some skin cancers appear as dark or irregular moles, while others may look more like a sore that won’t heal, a rough patch of skin, or a pink bump that slowly changes over time. Some of the most common warning signs of skin cancer include:  

• A changing mole 
• Uneven borders 
• Multiple colors within one spot 
• A sore that won’t heal 
• Bleeding or crusting skin lesions 
• New growths that continue enlarging 

Any spot that looks noticeably different from surrounding moles or skin marks deserves attention, especially if it continues evolving. 

When should I see a dermatologist for ABCDE skin cancer symptoms? 

The ABCDE rule is one of the most widely used tools for identifying suspicious moles or lesions that could potentially represent melanoma or another concerning skin change. These characteristics can help patients know when something should be professionally evaluated rather than simply monitored at home. The ABCDEs of skin cancer include:  

• Asymmetry 
• Border irregularity 
• Color variation 
• Diameter larger than a pencil eraser 
• Evolving appearance over time 

If you notice one or more of these changes, scheduling a professional skin evaluation sooner rather than later is always the safest approach. 

What happens at a skin cancer screening? 

A skin cancer screening is designed to carefully evaluate the skin for suspicious lesions, moles, or changes that may need additional monitoring or testing. During the appointment, Dr. Opeola will visually examine the skin, often from head to toe, looking for irregularities that could suggest skin cancer or precancerous changes. Patients are often surprised by how quick, comfortable, and straightforward a skin screening can be. In many cases, screenings help provide reassurance and establish a helpful baseline for monitoring future skin changes over time. 

How is skin cancer diagnosed? 

If an area of skin appears suspicious during an examination, a biopsy may be recommended to determine whether cancerous or precancerous cells are present. This typically involves removing a small sample of tissue so it can be analyzed more closely. A diagnosis helps determine not only whether skin cancer is present, but also what type it is and how advanced it may be. From there, treatment recommendations can be personalized based on the specific diagnosis and location involved. 

Which types of skin cancer are treatable? 

Many forms of skin cancer are highly treatable, especially when caught early. This is one of the most important reasons routine skin checks and prompt evaluation of suspicious lesions matter so much. Common types of skin cancer that may be treated successfully include:  

• Basal cell carcinoma 
• Squamous cell carcinoma 
• Melanoma when detected early 
• Precancerous skin lesions 

Treatment options can vary depending on the type and severity of skin cancer, but may include lesion removal, skin cancer surgery, topical chemotherapy, or other specialized dermatologic treatments. Again, Dr. Opeola will take ample time to explain your diagnosis and discuss available options to help restore and preserve your skin health now and in the future. 

Protect your health with early skin cancer detection and treatment in San Antonio, TX 

Ignoring suspicious skin changes can allow skin cancer to progress unnecessarily, especially when early diagnosis often leads to simpler and more successful treatment. At Westover Hills Dermatology in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Mobolaji Opeola provides comprehensive skin cancer screenings, evaluations, and advanced treatment options designed to protect both your skin and long-term health. Contact our team today to schedule your skin cancer screening and gain peace of mind about your skin health.