The skin is the largest organ in our body, which also makes it highly susceptible to several health problems. It is continuously exposed to the external environment, making it vulnerable to harmful substances, pollutants, and Ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can cause skin damage. Not only can numerous skin disorders, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and hives affect your skin, but there is also the risk of cancer. The key is to identify the conditions on time and receive appropriate treatment.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Pratik Patil, Consultant-Medical Oncologist, Jupiter Hospital, Pune, runs us through the risk of mistaking skin cancer for benign skin conditions and vice versa.
Also Read: Your Hair Loss May Be Due To Magnesium Deficiency: Here’s How To Handle It
Understanding Skin Cancer And Its Most Common Symptoms
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the skin's cells. It occurs when the skin cells grow abnormally, leading to the formation of tumours. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, which accounted for more than 10.5 lakh new cases in 2020 worldwide, says the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), adding that an estimated 3.25 lakh new cases of melanoma were diagnosed in the same year and 57,000 people died from the disease.
A new spot or mole on the skin is the most common symptom of skin cancer. Other than that, Dr Patil lists a few other symptoms that can occur due to the disease. These include:
- Non-healing sores
- Red or pink patches
- Rough or scaly skin
- Persistent dry skin
- Cauliflower-like or velvet growths
- Changes in existing moles, including alterations in size, shape, colour, texture, irregular borders, or bleeding
Why Skin Cancer Can Be Mistaken For Other Benign Skin Conditions
According to Dr Patil, there are three reasons why skin cancer can often be mistaken or misdiagnosed.
- Skin cancer can be subtle without any gross symptoms.
- Skin cancer lesions can resemble harmless conditions such as warts, cysts, eczema, or benign moles, making visual inspection alone insufficient for accurate diagnosis.
- Brown skin as in Indians make it difficult to notice very early.
Tests To Take
If you suspect skin cancer or have concerning symptoms following tests may be recommended:
Biopsy: A small sample of suspicious tissue is removed for laboratory analysis to make a definitive diagnosis of skin cancer.
Dermatoscopy: This technique allows for a closer examination of moles and skin lesions to identify suspicious features.
Imaging tests: CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be recommended to assess the spread of the disease in more advanced stages.
Who Is At Risk Of Skin Cancer?
Here’s are individuals who can be more prone to skin cancer:
- People with a family history of any cancers
- People who have a heavy exposure to direct sun
- People who work in fields
- People who have repeated trauma to skin like carpenters, painters, wood workers, and electricians
Conclusion
Remember that early detection and prompt treatment help achieve better outcomes and improved quality of life. Regular self-examinations, professional skin checks, and sun protection measures are crucial in reducing the risk of skin cancer. If you notice any unusual skin changes or lesions, consult a dermatologist.