Recognising Skin Cancer
Early detection saves lives. This guide provides clinical photographs and key warning signs for the most common types of skin cancer and pre-cancerous lesions. If you notice any suspicious changes on your skin, book a screening with Dr. Enyvari promptly.
Medical Disclaimer: The images and information on this page are for educational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Only a qualified physician can diagnose skin cancer. If you are concerned about a lesion, please book a consultation with Dr. Enyvari at Skin Spot Clinic.
Melanoma
The Most Serious Skin Cancer
Melanoma develops in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the skin. Although less common than other skin cancers, it is the most dangerous due to its ability to spread rapidly to other organs if not caught early.
Melanoma can appear anywhere on the body, including areas not exposed to the sun. Any new, changing, or unusual mole should be evaluated promptly.
Warning Signs
- Asymmetrical shape — one half does not match the other
- Irregular, ragged, or blurred borders
- Multiple colors within the same lesion (brown, black, red, white, blue)
- Diameter larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)
- Evolving — any change in size, shape, color, or new symptoms like bleeding
Basal Cell Carcinoma
The Most Common Skin Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently occurring form of all skin cancers. It arises from the basal cells in the deepest layer of the epidermis. BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can cause significant local destruction if left untreated.
BCC most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and hands. It grows slowly but can invade surrounding tissue if ignored.
Warning Signs
- Pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels
- Flat, flesh-coloured or brown scar-like lesion
- Bleeding or oozing sore that heals and returns
- Pink growth with raised edges and a crusted centre
- A sore that does not heal within 4 weeks
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The Second Most Common Skin Cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) originates in the squamous cells that make up the outer layers of the skin. It is more likely than BCC to spread to other parts of the body, particularly if it arises on the lips, ears, or in immunocompromised individuals.
SCC can develop from actinic keratoses (pre-cancerous lesions). Prompt treatment significantly reduces the risk of spread.
Warning Signs
- Firm, red nodule on the skin
- Flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface
- New sore or raised area on an old scar
- Rough, scaly patch on the lip
- Red sore or rough patch inside the mouth or on the genitals
Actinic Keratosis
A Pre-Cancerous Skin Lesion
Actinic keratosis (AK), also called solar keratosis, is a rough, scaly patch on the skin caused by years of sun exposure. It is considered pre-cancerous — if left untreated, it can progress to squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment is recommended to prevent this progression.
Actinic keratoses are very common in people over 40 who have had significant sun exposure. They are a warning sign that the skin has been damaged and needs monitoring.
Warning Signs
- Rough, dry, scaly patch of skin, typically less than 2.5cm
- Flat to slightly raised patch on the top layer of skin
- Hard, wart-like surface in some cases
- Itching, burning, or tenderness in the affected area
- Color ranging from pink to red to brown
The ABCDE Rule
The ABCDE rule is a simple guide to help you identify potential warning signs of melanoma. If a mole or spot matches any of these criteria, see Dr. Enyvari promptly.
Asymmetry
One half of the mole does not match the other half in shape or appearance.
Border
The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred rather than smooth and even.
Colour
The colour is not uniform — it may contain shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
Diameter
The spot is larger than 6mm across (about the size of a pencil eraser), though melanomas can be smaller.
Evolving
The mole is changing in size, shape, or colour, or new symptoms appear such as bleeding or itching.
Concerned About a Spot or Mole?
Don't wait. Early detection is the single most important factor in successful skin cancer treatment. Book a skin cancer screening with Dr. Enyvari at Skin Spot Clinic in Chilliwack, BC.