Concerns About Skin Lesion
Subject: Male, 51 years, height 5'10", not on any medication, non-smoker, diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and Ferguson-Smith Disease, residing in the UK. Hello everyone, For the past two weeks, I’ve been trying to secure a doctor's appointment here in the UK with no luck, so I thought I’d reach out to this community for some insights. I'm dealing with a troubling skin issue that’s been persistent for several weeks. It’s quite painful, displaying redness around the edges and what seems to be a hardened plug in the center. Additionally, the lesion continues to enlarge and is situated on my left outer elbow. Given my diagnosis of Ferguson-Smith Disease, I'm concerned it may be squamous cell carcinoma. However, I’m feeling anxious because my brother lost his battle with melanoma, which is making me a bit more vigilant about this situation. I appreciate any thoughts or advice you can share. Thank you! 👍
Answers (1)
3/5/2026, 10:20:54 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about a persistent and painful skin lesion, especially given your medical history and family background. The characteristics you describe—a red, enlarging lesion with a hardened center—can have several potential causes, ranging from benign conditions to more serious issues, including skin cancer.
Given your diagnosis of Ferguson-Smith Disease, which is associated with an increased risk of skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma, it's essential to monitor the lesion closely.
Here’s what you should focus on next:
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Observe Changes: Keep a detailed record of the lesion's changes over the coming days. Note its size, color, pain level, and any other symptoms like oozing or bleeding. This documentation can be valuable for future consultations.
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Self-Care Measures:
- Gentle Cleansing: Clean the area gently with mild soap and water daily. Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubs.
- Moisturization: Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer around the lesion, being careful not to directly apply it to the lesion itself.
- Avoid Irritation: Try to keep the area protected from friction or direct sunlight. Consider wearing long sleeves to minimize irritation from clothing.
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Seek Medical Attention: While you may be having difficulty securing an appointment, it’s vital to continue to pursue professional evaluation. Follow-up may involve:
- Visiting an urgent care facility if your symptoms worsen or you're unable to get a timely appointment with a dermatologist.
- Exploring telehealth options where you might receive initial advice or a prescription for more urgent treatment.
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Monitor Symptoms for Urgency: If you notice any of the following, seek immediate attention:
- Rapid enlargement of the lesion.
- Significant pain or swelling.
- Development of new symptoms like fever, chills, or lymph node swelling.
Emotional Support:
It's perfectly natural to feel heightened anxiety due to your family history and existing health conditions. Consider reaching out to a support group, whether in person or online, to share your feelings and find community support during this time.
Your health and peace of mind are the most important, so prioritize these observations and self-care measures while you work towards a medical consultation. Don’t hesitate to reach out again if you need further assistance or guidance.
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