Skin Cancer: Check Your Symptoms and Signs

Skin Cancer: Symptoms & Signs

Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

The term skin cancer refers to a group of different malignancies that originate in cells of the skin. Skin cancers are generally thought of as melanoma skin cancers or nonmelanoma skin cancers, which include basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in addition to less common types of tumors like Merkel cell tumors, hair and sweat gland tumors, or lymphomas of the skin. Signs of skin cancers include changes in the appearance of a mole or spot on the skin or the emergence of a new spot or lump on the skin. Skin cancers may also cause signs and symptoms such as

ulceration,
itching,
swelling,
scaling, or
bleeding of the skin, as well as other changes.

Causes of skin cancer

Skin cancers are believed to arise when exposure to ultraviolet light or radiation causes changes in the cells' DNA. Certain risk factors increase the risk of developing skin cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet light from sun exposure or tanning beds is a known risk factor. Other factors that increase your likelihood of developing skin cancer include exposure to radiation, including X-rays, and a weakened immune system.

REFERENCE:

Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 4/11/2018

symptomchecker

Health concerns on your mind?
Click here to visit our Symptom Checker.

Main Article on Skin Cancer Symptoms and Signs

Skin Cancer Overview

Skin cancers occur when skin cells undergo malignant transformations and grow into tumors. The most common types of skin cancer,...

Pictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes

Skin Cancer Symptoms and Signs

Asymmetric Mole
Black Spot on Skin
Bleeding in a Sore or Lump
Crusting of Skin
Enlarging Mole or Spot on Skin
Large Mole
Lump or Bump on Skin
Mole That Is Changing Color or Shape
Mole With Irregular Border
Persistent Open Sore on Skin
Raised Growth on Skin
Raised Patch of Skin
Rapidly Growing Mole
Reddened Skin Patch
Ulceration
Wart-Like Growth on Skin

Examples of Medications for Skin Cancer Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms & Signs A-Z List

Subscribe to MedicineNet's Cancer Report Newsletter

By clicking "Submit," I agree to the MedicineNet Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. I also agree to receive emails from MedicineNet and I understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet subscriptions at any time.