Should We Be Concerned?
Living in a rural region presents challenges, particularly when it comes to accessing medical care. My partner has developed a mark on his left knee—should we be alarmed? Based on the ABCD guidelines, there might be cause for concern, but we're not medical experts. We haven't noticed any noticeable changes recently, although it might have increased slightly in size over the last couple of months. It currently measures approximately 5mm across. He's a healthy man aged 60, weighing 68 kg and standing 188 cm tall. He has never been a smoker and occasionally enjoys a beer. Additionally, he takes a multivitamin supplement. We appreciate any guidance you can provide.
Answers (1)
9/1/2025, 1:11:08 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about a mark on your partner's knee, especially since it has changed slightly in size. Based on the details you’ve provided and the ABCD guideline for assessing moles (Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter), it’s wise to take a cautious approach.
Explanation: The ABCD guidelines help identify potential skin cancers, particularly melanoma. Here’s a brief breakdown:
- Asymmetry: Is one half different from the other?
- Border: Are the edges irregular or ragged?
- Color: Is there more than one color (brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue)?
- Diameter: Is the mark larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser)?
Your partner's mark is currently about 5mm, which is under the diameter threshold. However, the fact that it's changed size over a couple of months is significant. Since he’s healthy and does not have other risk factors, this is a good sign, but it does not eliminate the need for vigilance.
Next Steps:
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Track the Mark: Take clear photos of the mark now. Monitor for any changes in size, shape, color, or any associated symptoms (like itching or bleeding) over the next few weeks.
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Avoid Irritation: Ensure he avoids any irritants to the area (like tight clothing or harsh chemicals).
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Consider a Telehealth Consultation: Given that you're in a rural area, consider using a telemedicine service for a professional assessment. Many healthcare providers offer remote consultations and can give initial advice on skin concerns.
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Plan for Future Evaluation: If there are noticeable changes, or if you feel uneasy after monitoring for a couple of weeks, it would be prudent to arrange for an in-person evaluation when feasible.
Stay observant and prioritize monitoring the mark as this will help inform any future decisions. If you have further questions or need additional support, feel free to ask.
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