Cancer Types

In general, any new or changing spots on the skin that persist for two weeks or more should be brought to the attention of a doctor. Skin cancer usually has no symptoms in its early stages, although symptoms can appear at any time.

Symptoms of skin cancer may include:

There are new spots on the skin

Changes in the size, shape, or color of existing points of light. These changes can vary widely, so there is no one way to describe how skin cancer looks.

Itchy or painful areas

A sore that bleeds or crusts and does not heal

A glowing red or skin-colored bump on the surface of the skin

A rough red or scaly spot that you can feel

Tumors with raised or bleeding margins and central crusts

Verrucous growth

Scarring growth with no distinct boundary

Skin cancer symptoms can vary depending on the type of skin cancer and where it is on the skin. Below is a general description of the various symptoms associated with specific skin cancer types.

Basal cell carcinoma of the skin usually appears on the face, neck, arms, legs, ears and hands, all of which are exposed to sunlight. However, it can also appear in other areas. Signs of basal cell carcinoma include:

Pearly or waxy lumps on the skin

A flat, rough, or scarring patch of skin

Sores that bleed, do not heal fully, or recur

Squamous cell carcinoma also tends to occur in areas with strong sun exposure. In some cases, squamous cell carcinoma can affect areas that are not exposed to sunlight. This is especially true for people with darker skin. Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma include:

Hard red nodules

Scaly or crusty lesions with irregular borders

Painful or itchy skin lesions

Melanoma can occur on any part of the body and may develop some moles. In people with darker skin, melanoma tends to occur on the palms or soles of the feet. Symptoms of melanoma include:

Changes in the appearance of moles

Large brown spots develop, often with irregular edges

Black lesions on the mucous membranes (nose, mouth, vagina, or anus) or fingers and toes