Aestheticians : The First-Line Detectors of Malignant Skin Lesions | by Dr . Alpesh Desai
The ABCDEs are a simple way to screen for warning signs of melanoma in a client . appear as ulcerated nodules . Clients may complain of a spot that is tender , itchy , and bleeds easily . Squamous cell carcinomas have the potential to evolve rapidly and , if left untreated , can metastasize into local lymph nodes .
Melanomas are the third most common skin cancer following basal and squamous cell carcinomas , but they are by far the most aggressive and deadliest if not detected early . Cumulative exposure to ultraviolet radiation in the form of sunlight or tanning beds is a major risk factor for the development of melanomas . Therefore , they tend to appear on sun-exposed surfaces and most commonly appear on the legs of women and on the trunk of men . However , melanomas can also appear in places “ where the sun doesn ’ t shine ,” like the mouth and the soles of the feet .
The ABCDEs are a simple way to screen for warning signs of melanoma in a client . Asymmetry seen in a lesion may be an early warning sign of melanoma . Attention should be paid to moles where one half looks different from the other half . Border irregularity , such as jagged , notched , blurred , or scalloped edges in a mole should warrant further evaluation . Moles that are benign typically have smooth borders . Color variation within the same mole is another warning sign . Although there is no specific color that is particularly worrisome , a single mole that has multiple colors may be an early sign of melanoma . Benign moles usually maintain an even color throughout . Moles with a diameter greater than six millimeters , or larger than a pencil eraser , are concerning . If a mole evolves , or changes color , size , shape , or elevation , then further evaluation is warranted . Benign moles typically remain the same over time .
Aestheticians are certified beauty experts who help improve the appearance of a client ’ s skin ; however , they are also in a privileged position to be leaders in promoting early skin cancer detection and prevention . Clients should be alerted if any suspicious lesions are detected and encouraged to seek consultation by a board-certified dermatologist for further evaluation . Clients with years of extensive sun exposure , use of tanning beds , multiple sunburns , or have a family history of skin cancer should be educated to examine their skin regularly and have annual skin cancer screenings performed by a dermatologist .
32 iS Skin Source