Concerns About Skin Lesion
I am a 35-year-old woman who has previously used tanning beds and I'm anxious about a particular lesion on my abdomen. Does this appearance raise any concerns for skin cancer? I've included a Q-tip next to it for size comparison.
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 5:30:58 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about a skin lesion, especially given your history of tanning bed use. Changes in skin lesions can indeed raise concerns about skin cancer, particularly malignant melanoma, and it's wise to be vigilant.
Key Points:
- Skin lesions need monitoring: Changes in size, shape, color, or borders in moles or skin lesions warrant attention.
- Tanning bed usage increases risk: The use of tanning beds can increase the risk of developing skin cancers, including melanoma.
Explanation: A skin lesion that looks different from your other moles, is asymmetrical, has irregular borders, or changes color (especially if it develops a mixture of colors or is larger than a pencil eraser) could potentially be problematic. Key features to watch for include:
- Asymmetry: One half is unlike the other half.
- Border irregularity: Edges are ragged, blurred, or notched.
- Color variation: Different shades of brown, black, tan, or even red, white, and blue.
- Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- Evolving: Changes in any of these features over time.
Given your concerns about this particular lesion, here are prioritized next steps you can take:
- Monitor the lesion: Keep an eye on any changes in size, shape, or color over the next few weeks.
- Use the ABCDE criteria: Familiarize yourself with the ABCDEs of moles to help you evaluate the lesion.
- Avoid tanning beds: This limits further damage and risk of skin cancer.
- Document your observations: Take pictures for your records and note any changes in your lesion over time.
- Consider protective measures: Use sunscreen daily and wear protective clothing to reduce the risk of further sun damage.
If you observe significant changes or if the lesion starts to bother you (itch, bleed, or become painful), it’s advisable to seek professional evaluation promptly. Your health and peace of mind are important to consider. Let me know if you need further clarification or have additional questions.
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