The power of accurate diagnostics: Key Characteristics of Benign and Malignant skin lesions
Skin conditions may “mimic” each other in appearance and texture. Skin lesions are no different, and it can be difficult to discern a benign (non-cancerous or harmless) skin lesion from a malignant or cancerous one. Because of this difficulty, proper evaluation requires an expert eye and the knowledge and skill of a professional, such as board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in Jupiter, Florida, Dr. Susan Schroeder. Dr. Schroeder is known for her meticulous approach to conducting full-body skin evaluations at Perfect Skin MD. No lesion or concern that requires attention is missed.
Notably, Dr. Schroeder may find that a lesion warrants further attention or investigation. She will never unnecessarily biopsy or sample and evaluate a lesion that is obviously benign (unless it is bothersome to the patient.). If a biopsy is needed, however, Dr. Schroeder takes care to ensure that the scar left behind is minimal. Biopsies are done routinely and daily in the office. Most frequently, this service involves using a “punch,” a device that resembles a miniature apple core device, to obtain an adequate sample of the layers of skin. Dr. Schroeder may alternatively perform a shave biopsy. True to its name, a specialized tool is used to shave a thin sample of the growth from the skin. These two approaches prioritize the conservative removal of tissue. Dr. Schroeder takes this same precise and tissue-preserving approach to treat those lesions that are cancerous, and that may be in highly visible or sensitive areas, such as the face. At the core, lesions are any irregularities within the skin that differ from surrounding tissues.
Below are listed a few of the common features of skin cancers and some of the other lesions that they may resemble:
- Actinic Keratoses are pre-cancers that can appear as dry and scaly patches. They can be mistaken for irritation from dry skin or a sore that persists and never really heals.
- Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCCs), the most common type of skin cancer, can also appear as persistent sores. They may even heal and then come back later. Additionally, patients may brush off BCCs as irritated or inflamed areas of skin. These pink, pearly papules and plaques develop in sun-exposed areas, like the shoulders and legs. They can also appear as shiny or lighter-colored bumps, nodules, and growths.
- Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs) are the prevalent type of skin cancer, second only to BCCs. SCCs may appear as firm red bumps as well as scaly patches that recur – healing and then re-opening again. They can also be tender or painful. Be sure to watch for any persistent scores and scaly areas on the ears, face, neck, and other commonly sun-exposed areas.
- Melanomas, the most serious form of skin cancer, have characteristic and distinguishing traits separate from BCCs and SCCs. They can be mistaken for harmless dark spots, like freckles and moles. Potential red flags range from moles that feature more than one color to spots that are larger, irregularly bordered, and otherwise evolving differently than other similar moles.
To rule out and confirm the true nature of a concerning spot requires professional expertise. Contact our team at Perfect Skin MD today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schroeder. Our office in Jupiter, Florida, can be reached at 561-462-1965.
