Signs of Skin Cancer You Should Not Ignore

Skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the United States, but it is also one of the most treatable when identified in its earliest stages. Because many malignant lesions develop on parts of the body that are easily visible, regular self-examination is a powerful tool for survival. At the Manalapan, NJ, dermatology practice of Lisa Silbret, MD, and Alan Schechter, MD, we emphasize that knowing what to look for can be the difference between a simple in-office procedure and a more complex medical journey. Early detection starts with recognizing subtle changes in the texture, color, and behavior of your skin.

Recognizing the ABCDEs of Melanoma

Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer, so it is essential to monitor moles for any signs of evolution. Dermatologists use the ABCDE guide to help patients evaluate suspicious spots. Asymmetry occurs when one half of a mole does not match the other. Borders that are irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined should be noted. Color variation, wherein a mole contains multiple shades of brown, black, or even red and blue, is a significant warning sign. A diameter larger than a pencil eraser (6mm) or any mole that is evolving in size, shape, or sensation requires immediate clinical attention. Lisa Silbret, MD, and Alan Schechter, MD, provide professional mole mapping and digital dermoscopy to track these changes.

Identifying Non-Melanoma Indicators

Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas often present differently than traditional moles. A basal cell carcinoma may appear as a pearly or translucent bump, a pinkish growth with a slightly elevated border, or a waxy, scar-like lesion. These often bleed easily with minor trauma and may repeatedly crust over without fully healing. Squamous cell carcinoma frequently looks like a persistent, scaly red patch or a firm, wart-like growth that may become tender. At our Manalapan, NJ, office, we evaluate these "non-healing" spots carefully, as they often indicate a need for surgical intervention to prevent further tissue damage.

The Warning Sign of a Sore That Will Not Heal

One of the most overlooked symptoms of skin cancer is a sore that heals and then reopens in the same location. This cycle often occurs because a malignancy is interfering with the skin’s natural repair process. If you have a spot that bleeds, oozes, or scabs for more than three weeks, it should not be dismissed as a simple blemish or irritation. Lisa Silbret, MD, and Alan Schechter, MD, perform biopsies on these persistent lesions to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Catching these indicators early allows for the most conservative and effective treatment options.

Annual Screenings at our Manalapan, NJ Office

While self-exams are vital, they do not replace the expertise of a board-certified dermatologist. Professional screenings allow for the inspection of hard-to-reach areas, such as the scalp, back, and behind the ears. Lisa Silbret, MD, and Alan Schechter, MD, are dedicated to providing the Manalapan community with the highest standard of oncological skin care. By combining your home vigilance with our clinical oversight, you can ensure that potential skin cancer is caught long before it poses a threat. To schedule your next examination, call (732) 303-1500.