What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

March 31, 2022March 31, 2022 by Brittney

Have you ever wondered if the moles on your skin are good or bad? How does one tell the difference between good moles and bad moles? There are different types of skin cancers. Idaho’s CT Derm team explains that among the most common skin cancers are melanoma, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and squamous cell carcinoma (SQCC). Each of these skin cancers has a different appearance. Melanomas can present as a new mole or a mole that has changed. They can be flat or raised, have color or no color.

An easy way one can assess moles and help to identify if they are “good” or “bad” is by doing the ABCDEs:

A: Asymmetry; half of the mole looks different than the other half

B: Border of mole has an irregular shape, or the shape of the mole is changing

C: Color variation, the mole has different colors or has changed colors

D: Diameter of mole is larger than 6mm

E: Elevation, the mole becomes raised or is evolving/changing

Basal cell carcinomas are commonly found in sun-exposed areas of the body and tend to be slow-growing lesions. BCC’s can present as a bump with a pearly appearance and often a red blood vessel structure can be seen. These tend to be wound-like and frequently are reported as a spot that won’t heal.

Squamous cell carcinomas present as dry, red, scaly patches. They are often sensitive, itchy, and/or sore and have the tendency to bleed. SQCCs can also appear to have a warty look or very thick scale that looks scab-like.

Not all new moles or changing moles are concerning. To help better identify possible problematic growths, an individual should get their skin checked at least once a year by a dermatologist or a provider who has special training in dermatology. These providers will use a tool called a dermoscope. This tool illuminates and magnifies the mole so skin structures can be better assessed. This allows the provider to create individualized plans for their patients by helping determine which moles can be monitored and which ones need to be removed.

For more information or to schedule a skin check, contact CT Derm by calling 208-452-7450 or sending a message online.

Here is What our Patients Think

All of the interaction with the staff, technicians and doctors have been professional and friendly. The staff is efficient, the wait times are minimal, and the care is exceptional. I highly recommend CTDerm.

— Wade W. (Patient since 2019)

I have known from a distance that Dr. Thornfeldt and his staff were very good. But in just one visit, I realize that I had underestimated how good they are. Our son and daughter's skin issues, as well as my own, were not noticed by our dermatologist where we live. It was fully worth the trip from Florida.

— Robert H. (patient since 2016)

My experience with Dr. Thornfeldt and his staff has been nothing but pleasurable. The staff are friendly and helpful going the extra mile to meet the patients needs. Dr. Thornfeldt is dedicated to the care of his patients, actively listening and responding as he seeks to see the bigger picture.

— Dezra. R (patient since 2019)

The staff at CT Derm is very friendly and helpful. I found the visit very comfortable. Dr. Thornfeldt is extremely knowledgeable, thorough, and understanding. I am a former patient of his from when he had an office in Nampa, but due to improved skin issues and major life changes, -- a divorce and move, I didn't follow him to his Fruitland office. After over 12 years, and new skin problems, I knew it was time make the drive. I trust him completely and appreciate his experience and expertise.

— Ellen S. (patient since 2018)