What could a suspicious spot be if it's not melanoma?
Not all abnormal moles or skin lesions are melanoma. Several less dangerous conditions can look similar and may be mistaken for melanoma.
Common conditions that can resemble melanoma include:
* Seborrheic keratosis - A noncancerous skin growth with a waxy, raised Show Full Answer
What could a suspicious spot be if it's not melanoma?
Not all abnormal moles or skin lesions are melanoma. Several less dangerous conditions can look similar and may be mistaken for melanoma.
Common conditions that can resemble melanoma include:
* Seborrheic keratosis - A noncancerous skin growth with a waxy, raised appearance that's often itchy
* Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) - A less aggressive type of skin cancer that usually looks pearly and flesh-colored
* Psoriasis - A scaly lesion that comes and goes, which may be a psoriasis flare-up
* Age spots - Flat tan or brown patches that can be mistaken for lentigo maligna melanoma
* Spitz nevus - A harmless mole that usually develops during childhood and can look similar to Spitzoid melanoma
Some melanomas themselves can also look like other common skin problems, such as pink or red sores, cysts, bruises, or darkened spots underneath the skin. This can make accurate diagnosis challenging.
If you notice any new or changing spots on your skin, it's important to see your doctor or dermatologist. They can examine the lesion and perform a biopsy if needed to determine whether it's melanoma or another condition.
April 3
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