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06
Mar
Five things to look for to detect skin cancer early on
Skin cancer is becoming increasingly common as the years go on, especially as many people didn’t know years ago how to protect their skin properly. Tanning beds are a definite no-no, as each burn and sun exposure increases the chances of developing skin cancer at some point in one’s life. Melanoma has several stages and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Dr. Amina Bougrine of Montreal, Quebec, is a board-certified dermatologist who can educate patients on what to look for to spot skin cancer early on–and when to take action!
Five things to look for to detect skin cancer early
- Unusual or changing moles. If a mole suddenly changes its size, shape, or colour, it might be time to give it some extra attention. It may be a sign of skin cancer and require further evaluation.
- A mole or spot that looks different than others on your skin. Does one spot look different from all the others? A new or unusual mole might be trying to stand out for a reason—don’t ignore it!
- New spots or skin growths. Spots that appear unexpectedly, especially after you’re well into adulthood, should be assessed by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Bougrine and her team at Aura Dermatologie. These new growths might indicate that changes are happening—and not always good ones!
- Rough patches on the skin that do not seem to heal or go away. If you’ve got a sore, scab, or rough patch that’s lingering without healing, it’s worth a closer look by a trained professional.
- Areas that bleed, itch, or become “crusty.” When your skin acts out by becoming itchy, bleeding, or forming a crust, it might be time to schedule an appointment for further evaluation to ensure the area has been diagnosed properly and to ensure the best treatment.
What happens if I think I may have an area indicative of skin cancer?
When you schedule a skin cancer evaluation with Dr. Bougrine and her team at Aura Dermatologie, you can rest assured knowing you are in good hands. With extensive experience in skin cancer detection and treatment, she will thoroughly examine your skin and any potentially concerning areas.
In addition, her team utilizes advanced technology, such as dermoscopy, to aid in the early detection and precise diagnosis. If a suspicious area or lesion is found on your skin, Dr. Bougrine will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.
A biopsy may be performed to further evaluate the growth of concern. Then, treatment options are discussed, which might include surgical removal of the lesion, topical treatments, or other specialized therapies depending on the type and severity of the cancer.
Where can I find a dermatologist to help spot skin cancer early on?
Everyone is strongly encouraged to have an annual skin cancer screening to monitor for this and other skin concerns that can develop with time. We invite you to call (514) 600-3098 to request an upcoming visit with Dr. Amina Bougrine and our professionals at 800 Rue du Square-Victoria, Suite #2710.
