When a "Rash" Isn't a Rash: How Skin Cancer Can Masquerade as Common Conditions

A Case of Misdiagnosis: Stephanie's Story

Recently, I saw a lovely woman, who we will refer to as Stephanie, in her late forties, who complained of a rash on her back. She told me that she had the rash for about 8-12 months. It wasn’t very itchy but was always red and never really went away despite using an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. The funny thing to her was that it was only in one spot, didn’t spread to other areas but ever so gradually increased in size.

Upon examination using a dermatoscope, a special magnifying instrument that provides a detailed view, I became suspicious that this wasn’t a rash at all but rather a Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma. A small biopsy confirmed the diagnosis, and after discussing treatment options, Stephanie underwent a minor in-office procedure to remove the skin cancer. She was cured!

Skin Cancer: A Growing Concern

May marks Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of early detection. It's estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer, making it more common than breast, colon, lung, and prostate cancers combined. Surprisingly, melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults aged 25-29. It’s also responsible for around 75% of skin cancer deaths, with more than two people dying every hour in the U.S. from melanoma.

The Three Main Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is categorized into three main types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. While basal and squamous cell carcinomas are much less likely to spread, melanoma is far more dangerous and potentially lethal.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

BCC is the most common form of skin cancer and often appears as a non-healing sore or crusted bump. Some BCCs look like red patches, which can be misdiagnosed as dry skin or eczema. Though it rarely metastasizes, early detection is key for preventing further complications.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Like BCC, SCC can appear as a non-healing sore or scaly patch on the skin. These growths often appear on sun-exposed areas, and although they are less aggressive than melanoma, they still require treatment to prevent them from spreading.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, responsible for most skin cancer-related deaths. It typically presents as a new dark or irregularly shaped spot on the skin or a change in an existing mole. Early detection is crucial for survival, with a 99% five-year survival rate for early-stage melanoma.

Preventing Skin Cancer: A Simple Approach

Most skin cancers have a genetic component, and exposure to the sun or tanning beds is a significant risk factor. To prevent skin cancer, I recommend:

• Avoiding the peak sun hours between 10 AM and 2 PM.
• Applying and reapplying broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly.
• Steering clear of tanning beds (spray tans are a safer alternative).
• Scheduling an annual full-body skin check with a board-certified dermatologist.

You should also perform a monthly self-exam to spot any changes in existing moles or new spots on your skin.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Early detection is crucial in the fight against skin cancer. Regular skin checks can ensure that any potential issues are caught early, leading to higher chances of successful treatment and cure.

Get Checked Today

Luckily for Stephanie, her story had a happy ending. If you have any spots of concern or if you can’t remember the last time you had a full-body check, don’t wait. Call our office at 925-838-4900 to schedule an appointment today.

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