The warm, bright rays of the summer sun can tempt us to spend more time outside enjoying the weather. However, the summer months, when the sun’s rays are the strongest in our area, also pose a risk for our delicate skin, especially without the protection of sunscreen or the shade.
Many poeple may notice a new mole, a skin blemish that won’t go away or a change in their pigment and not realize that these can be the early warning signs of skin cancer. There are several kinds of skin cancer, all of which are difficult to diagnose without the trained eye of a medical doctor or a biopsy procedure. It is important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sandel in his Annapolis office if you notice any skin changes or feel concerned about a previous blemish or mole that is changing in appearance.
Types of skin cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: the most common type of skin cancer, basal cell typically presents as a skin irritation or blemish that doesn’t heal. It is frequently found on the neck and face.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: this type of cancer typically develops rapidly as an ulcerated type of skin blemish or lesion that seems to be spreading.
- Melanoma: the most aggressive of the skin cancers, melanoma can be easier to spot because it usually appears as a pigmented spot, or mole, on the skin that changes shape and may be raised. A mole that has been on the skin for some time may suddenly begin to change its texture and shape, or a new pigmented spot may appear.
If you notice any changes listed above or are concerned about a skin blemish or mole, it is important to schedule a visit with Dr. Sandel as soon as possible. Many skin cancers are treatable when they are caught in their early stages.
Contact Dr. Sandel at the Sandel Duggal Center in Annapolis to make an appointment.