Medical Questions » Skin Cancer Questions » Question No. 903
| Question: | I keep hearing about people who have skin cancers that can kill them if they are left for too long. I have worked out in the sun most of my life, and would like to know what a skin cancer looks like? |
| Answer: | Cancers of the outermost layer of skin are called skin cancers or squamous cell carcinomas. They occur most commonly on the exposed parts of the body such as the face, scalp, arms and hands. Men with receding hairlines are at greatest risk, because they lack nature' s own sunshade.
A skin cancer looks like a red spot covered in fine white scales. They may be itchy or sore, and often attract attention because they are unsightly. Most of them can be very easily removed, and if the doctor is sure of the diagnosis he or she may burn the cancer off with a diathermy machine, or freeze it off with liquid nitrogen.
If the skin cancer is large, it is necessary to cut out the spot and the surrounding tissue to prevent it from spreading further.
The signs to watch for in a spot or sore are any change in colour, shape or size; soreness or itchiness; or bleeding or weeping. If any of these signs occur, see your doctor immediately!
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