Is this a sign of skin cancer? Seeking insights
A 40-year-old African American man who does not smoke, has no known allergies, and occasionally enjoys a beer has noticed a concerning change on his skin. Approximately 6 to 8 months ago, a small blemish started to appear, which has since expanded significantly to 4x6 centimeters. Currently, the area does not exhibit any itching, pain, or peeling, but it feels elevated and has a rough texture. This irregularity is situated solely on his left hip and is not present anywhere else on his body. To get a professional opinion faster, he has sent a photograph to his healthcare provider, but he is advised it may take 2 to 3 days for a response. Therefore, he's reaching out for additional advice here as well. He appreciates any insights you may have.
Answers (1)
3/25/2025, 4:20:31 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concern about noticeable changes in your skin, especially when they seem significant. The details you've shared about the blemish on your hip, its size, elevation, and rough texture are important for assessing potential skin issues, including skin cancer.
Explanation
Changes in the skin, particularly in moles or blemishes, can sometimes indicate skin conditions, including skin cancer. Factors like size (larger than 6mm), irregular shape, and changes in color are critical signs to monitor. The fact that it has grown over 6 to 8 months is worth noting. Elevated areas with a rough texture can sometimes be benign but can also warrant further investigation.
Next Steps
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Self-Observation: Monitor the blemish closely over the next few days. Pay attention to any changes in size, color, redness, or if you start to notice any discomfort such as itching or bleeding.
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Avoid Irritation: Try to avoid scratching or irritating the area, as this can complicate the assessment by your healthcare provider.
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Photograph Changes: If it changes in appearance before your provider can respond, take clear photographs to document its progression. This can help in the assessment process later.
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Ask Specific Questions: When your healthcare provider does respond, consider asking about the characteristics of the blemish, the type of tests they may recommend, and what indicators might suggest a need for further testing or treatment.
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Stay Informed: In the meantime, you can read about skin cancer and its signs on reputable sources like the American Academy of Dermatology or the Skin Cancer Foundation to better understand what to expect and what additional signs might be concerning.
Remember, it’s great that you’ve already reached out for professional advice and documented your concerns. Keep calm and follow up once you hear back from your healthcare provider, as they will provide you with tailored advice based on their examination and your medical history.
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