How do I know if a spot on my skin is suspicious?
A change is as good as a holiday - just not when it comes to skin cancer. In fact, changes in spots or lumps on our skin are a good indication that it's time to get a skin check.
When it comes to our skin, "change" can mean:
Appearance
Including changes in shape, size, colour, borders, elevation or texture
Newness
A new spot or lump that has appeared since your last check
Difference
Normal moles will likely look similar and "ugly ducklings" should be checked
Feeling
Think spots or lumps that bleed, itch or crust
Wai Mun Loh
TerryWhite Chemmart Mildura, VIC
If it’s changing, get it checked
This video from skin cancer doctor Dr Tony Dicker explains it really well.
What happens at a skin check?
Skin checks are not invasive and are conducted by trained professionals. When visiting a doctor or skin cancer clinic, you will be asked to remove your outer clothing, so that your doctor can check over your skin using a handheld magnifying instrument called a dermascope. Your doctor will be guided by the ABCDE to identify whether spots are normal or not:
A – Asymmetry: is one half of the spot different?
B – Border: are its edges blurred or ragged?
C – Colour: are there multiple colours or shades?
D – Diameter: is it wider than 6mm?
E – Evolving: is it changing in any way, or itching, bleeding, crusting?
If your doctor finds a potentially suspicious spot, you may be required to have a further test
Who can check my skin?
If you have concerns about a particular mole or mark, you can book a spot check at participating TerryWhite Chemmart pharmacies. During your spot check, your Pharmacist will take images of 1-3 concerning spots, and send these to a skin cancer doctor for evaluation. Following this, the doctor will email you the report within 48 hours.
Otherwise, depending on your needs and skin history, your GP, a skin cancer clinic or a specialised dermatologist can provide skin checks.
Let's shine a light on skin cancer. For tips and more information on skin cancer and sun protection, click here. Or spot check with your TerryWhite Chemmart Pharmacist here.