Approximately one in five Americans will develop skin cancer throughout their lives. And even more shockingly, about 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer each day. At Hecker Dermatology Group, serving Pompano Beach and Tamarac, FL, and the nearby region, Dr. David Hecker and Dr. Melanie Hecker treat skin cancer and recommend people recognize the signs.

1. A Sore That Won't Heal

Be cautious of a sore that develops and won't heal. Typically, a wound heals within 24 days, so if you notice a sore that's developed and still hasn't healed, especially with treatment, it might be a good idea to get it looked at for skin cancer. 

2. A Multi-Colored Mole

A mole is typically one color. If you're looking at one that has more than one color, it may be an indication it's potentially cancerous and you should contact our dermatologists for a skin cancer evaluation. Sometimes, it's not necessarily multicolored as much as it has a gradient of the same color. 

3. A Size-Changing Mole

While you can grow new moles throughout life, they typically remain the same size when they appear throughout your life. Take notice of one that's growing larger. While it's not as common, the mole may shrink in size.

4. A Change in Skin After Skin Cancer Removal

Although a doctor strives to remove all the skin cancer, it can be deep within the skin, so sometimes some of it remains. Therefore, make sure you're looking at the scar where you had the surgery. Check for unusual colors or spots.

5. Fingernail and Toenail Changes

Sometimes, the melanoma appears under the nails as streaks or dark spots below the nail.

6. A Mole With Abnormal Borders

The edges of a cancerous mole or lesion may not be clear. They may appear blurred, jagged, or uneven.

7. Scaly Patch

A patch of skin with cancer cells may appear scaly or rough. You may try to use lotion on it without any luck at softening it.

Assessment

You should also be leery if you notice the sore is bleeding, itchy, or painful and isn't responding to treatment. We'll ask you questions about the mole or lesion for this reason.

Then, our dermatologist will conduct a biopsy by taking a sample and examining it carefully under a microscope. Our Drs. Melanie or David Hecker at Hecker Dermatology Group, serving Pompano Beach and Tamarac, FL, and neighboring communities, check patients for skin cancer and help by educating them about the warning signs that people seek out help to get the area examined.

If you notice signs of skin cancer, contact us today at (954) 783-2323 today.