I work mostly outdoors, often without a coat. Recently, the mole on my hand has become darker and increased in size. Is it a sign of skin cancer? (Nguyen Nghia, Ho Chi Minh City)
Moles are pigmented skin lesions that appear at birth or form during the body’s development. Moles often appear on skin exposed to sunlight such as the face, neck, hands… Depending on each person’s skin pigmentation, moles have different dark and light colors, including black, brown, red (lipstick moles). ).
Moles can be benign or malignant. Benign moles usually have one color and clear, even borders. Moles of various colors such as gray, greenish, unevenly dark or light… can be a sign of skin cancer. White moles warn of skin cancer or liver disease.
Moles that warn of skin cancer are often dangerous and develop quickly. If not diagnosed and treated, there is a high possibility of metastasis to lymph nodes, liver, bones, lungs, brain… If detected early and treated promptly, the chance of cure is high. Cancer from a non-itchy, painless mole is easily overlooked. Patients often go to the doctor when the disease becomes severe, causing inflammation, ulcers, skin necrosis…
Most normal moles are small, do not grow or increase in size slowly. Moles that warn of cancer appear to rapidly increase in size due to uncontrolled melanin hyperpigmentation, which can lead to large black patches on the skin. Malignant moles also appear anywhere on the body, have asymmetrical shape, and have blurred and rough borders.
In your case, the mole increases in size and changes color, so you should see a Head, Face and Neck specialist for diagnosis and treatment. If cancer is suspected, the doctor will prescribe a biopsy or surgery to remove the mole from the body for pathology. Depending on the stage of cancer, the doctor will prescribe radiotherapy or not.
People with skin abnormalities such as small tumors, ulcers, etc. lasting more than two weeks should see a specialist. The skin appears red or brown with a rough surface with scales or crusts; Moles with unclear edges, strange colors, itching, redness, swelling, growing in size, asymmetry… also warn of skin cancer, need to see a doctor soon.