The ABCDEs of Skin Cancer: A Simple Guide To Spotting Trouble

Skin cancer is the most common cancer people in the U.S. face. The best prognoses come from detecting it early and receiving treatment as soon as possible. At Skin Cancer and Dermatology Center, serving Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Trinidad, and the nearby regions, our dermatological specialists encourage you to know your ABCDEs of skin cancer.

A Is for Asymmetry

 A standard mole or other skin marking is usually symmetrical. Therefore, if you have asymmetrical skin growth, it's a reason to visit a specialist for an examination because it could be melanoma.

B Is for Border

 The border of a standard mole is well-defined. However, the border of a cancerous skin spot is usually irregularly shaped.

C Is for Color 

 Skin cancer often appears as a dark spot, usually tan, black, or brown. Sometimes, they could also be red, white, or blue, which tends to indicate the cancer is more advanced. Some are pink, red, or the same tone as your skin. Moreover, a malignant spot may be multiple colors.

D Is for Diameter

 Typically, a mole or other similar marking is the size of a pencil's eraser or smaller. If you have a growth larger than the size of a pencil eraser, which is about a quarter inch or six millimeters, it could mean the spot is cancerous.

E Is for Evolving

 The "E" is for evolving. A typical mole or marking will remain the same throughout your life. It may change slightly in color or size from hormonal changes, the sun, or the aging process. However, pay careful attention to a mole or other growth changing drastically in size, color, or shape. 

What to Do if You Notice a Troubling Growth 

We recommend you don't panic. Instead, contact one of our offices, serving Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Trinidad, and the neighboring communities, for an appointment. You'll first need to complete a medical history report so we can determine whether you have a family history of cancer.

Next, one of our specialists will examine your mole or other skin growth carefully using a dermatoscope.

Our practitioner will ask you questions about any issues you have with that spot, such as pain, bleeding, itching, or oozing.

If the growth is suspicious, our specialist will ask to take a biopsy to determine for certain if it's cancer.

Contact Skin Cancer and Dermatology Center, serving Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Trinidad, and the surrounding areas, if you have a mole with any of the aforementioned issues or for a routine skin cancer screening.

Call:

Colorado Springs - 719-574-0310

Pueblo - 719-564-5544

Trinidad - 800-290-2478