Rak skóry
Objawy

Rak skóry, obejmujący głównie rak podstawnokomórkowy (BCC), rak kolczystokomórkowy (SCC) oraz czerniaka, jest jednym z najczęściej diagnozowanych nowotworów. Wczesne rozpoznanie zmian skórnych, takich jak nowe guzki, zmiany w znamionach, rany niegojące się powyżej 4 tygodni czy zmiany pigmentacji, jest kluczowe dla skutecznego leczenia. BCC charakteryzuje się perłowymi guzkami, otwartymi ranami i zmianami przypominającymi blizny, natomiast SCC manifestuje się twardymi, czerwonymi guzkami lub łuszczącymi się zmianami, często na obszarach eksponowanych na słońce. Czerniak, będący najbardziej agresywnym typem, cechuje się asymetrycznymi, nieregularnymi znamionami o średnicy powyżej 6 mm, zróżnicowanym zabarwieniem i tendencją do szybkiego przerzutowania. Stadia czerniaka, od in situ (stadium 0) do zaawansowanego (stadium IV), determinują rokowanie i wybór terapii, przy czym wczesne stadium I charakteryzuje się grubością guza do 2 mm bez przerzutów, a stadium IV obejmuje przerzuty do odległych narządów.

Objawy raka skóry

Rak skóry jest jednym z najczęściej występujących nowotworów na świecie. Wczesne rozpoznanie i leczenie znacząco zwiększają szanse na całkowite wyleczenie. Objawy raka skóry mogą różnić się w zależności od jego typu, a ich znajomość jest kluczowa dla wczesnej diagnostyki.12

Pierwsze oznaki raka skóry

Najczęstszym pierwszym objawem raka skóry jest zmiana skórna, która może przyjmować różne formy. Do podstawowych objawów należą:12

  • Nowy guzek lub narośl na skórze
  • Zmiana w istniejącym znamieniu (rozmiar, kształt, kolor)
  • Rana, która nie goi się przez ponad 4 tygodnie
  • Miejsce, które swędzi, boli, krwawi lub tworzy strup przez ponad 4 tygodnie
  • Zmiana wyglądu i tekstury skóry

Zmiany skórne mogą mieć różny wygląd – mogą być przezroczyste, błyszczące, różowe, perłowo-białe lub czerwone. Często mają uniesione brzegi i mogą wydawać się szorstkie w dotyku.12

Objawy raka podstawnokomórkowego (BCC)

Rak podstawnokomórkowy (BCC) jest najczęstszym typem raka skóry. Zwykle rozwija się powoli i rzadko daje przerzuty do innych części ciała. Charakterystyczne objawy obejmują:123

  • Mały, perłowy lub przezroczysty guzek, często z widocznymi małymi naczyniami krwionośnymi
  • Płaski, różowy lub czerwonawy obszar przypominający bliznę
  • Otwarta rana, która krwawi, sączy się, tworzy strup, ale nie goi się
  • Czerwona plama lub podrażniony obszar, który może swędzieć lub nie powodować dyskomfortu
  • Błyszczący guzek lub narośl perłowa lub przezroczysta, różowa, czerwona, biała
  • Mały różowy wzrost z lekko podniesionym, zawiniętym brzegiem i zagłębieniem w środku
  • Obszar podobny do blizny – płaski, żółty lub woskowy w kolorze

Zmiany BCC mogą wyglądać różnie i czasem przypominają inne nienowotworowe zmiany skórne, jak łuszczyca czy egzema, co utrudnia diagnostykę bez badania histopatologicznego.12

Objawy raka kolczystokomórkowego (SCC)

Rak kolczystokomórkowy (SCC) jest drugim najczęstszym typem raka skóry. Jest bardziej agresywny niż BCC i może dawać przerzuty, jeśli nie zostanie wcześnie leczony. Objawy SCC to:123

  • Twardy, czerwony guzek
  • Płaska zmiana z łuszczącą się lub pokrytą strupem powierzchnią
  • Szorstka, czerwona plama z nieregularnymi brzegami
  • Otwarta rana, która nie goi się
  • Narośl podobna do brodawki
  • Ból lub tkliwość w miejscu zmiany

SCC często występuje na obszarach skóry narażonych na działanie słońca, takich jak twarz, uszy, szyja, ręce i ramiona, ale może także pojawiać się w okolicy narządów płciowych.12

Objawy czerniaka

Czerniak jest najgroźniejszym rodzajem raka skóry, ponieważ szybko daje przerzuty do innych narządów. Wczesne wykrycie ma kluczowe znaczenie dla pomyślnego leczenia. Objawy czerniaka obejmują:123

  • Nowe lub zmieniające się znamię
  • Asymetryczny kształt znamienia
  • Nieregularne, postrzępione brzegi
  • Niejednolity kolor (różne odcienie brązu, czarnego, czasem czerwonego, białego, niebieskiego)
  • Średnica większa niż 6 mm (wielkość gumki od ołówka)
  • Ewolucja – zmiana rozmiaru, kształtu lub koloru
  • Krwawienie, swędzenie lub ból znamienia
  • Zmiany pigmentacji pod paznokciami lub na błonach śluzowych

Czerniak może rozwinąć się w istniejącym znamieniu lub pojawić się jako nowa zmiana. Często wygląda jak „brzydkie kaczątko” – znamię wyraźnie różniące się od pozostałych.12

Postęp raka skóry

Stadia raka skóry

Stadium raka skóry określa, jak duży jest nowotwór i jak daleko się rozprzestrzenił. Znajomość stadium jest istotna dla określenia opcji leczenia i rokowania.1

W przypadku czerniaka wyróżnia się następujące stadia:123

  • Stadium 0: Czerniak in situ – komórki nowotworowe znajdują się tylko w warstwie zewnętrznej skóry (naskórku)
  • Stadium I: Nowotwór ma do 2 mm grubości, może mieć owrzodzenie lub nie, ale nie rozprzestrzenił się do węzłów chłonnych ani odległych narządów
  • Stadium II: Nowotwór jest grubszy niż 1 mm (może przekraczać 4 mm), może mieć owrzodzenie, ale nie rozprzestrzenił się poza miejsce pierwotne
  • Stadium III: Rak rozprzestrzenił się do pobliskich węzłów chłonnych lub skóry
  • Stadium IV: Nowotwór dał przerzuty do odległych węzłów chłonnych lub narządów wewnętrznych (płuca, wątroba, mózg, kości)

Stadia raka podstawnokomórkowego i kolczystokomórkowego są rzadziej określane, ponieważ te nowotwory rzadko dają przerzuty. Jednak wysokiego ryzyka nowotwory BCC i SCC mogą być klasyfikowane na podstawie czynników ryzyka nawrotu lub przerzutów.1

Przerzuty raka skóry

Zaawansowany rak skóry, szczególnie czerniak i bardziej agresywne formy SCC, może dawać przerzuty do innych części ciała, powodując dodatkowe objawy zależne od lokalizacji:12

Przerzuty do węzłów chłonnych

Gdy rak skóry rozprzestrzenia się do węzłów chłonnych, mogą one być twarde i obrzęknięte. Obrzęknięte węzły chłonne w okolicy szyi mogą utrudniać przełykanie.12

Przerzuty do płuc

Objawy przerzutów do płuc mogą obejmować:12

  • Kaszel, który nie ustępuje
  • Duszność
  • Nawracające infekcje płucne
  • Odkrztuszanie krwi
  • Gromadzenie się płynu między ścianą klatki piersiowej a płucem (wysięk opłucnowy)
Przerzuty do wątroby

Przerzuty do wątroby mogą powodować:12

  • Dyskomfort lub ból po prawej stronie brzucha
  • Nudności
  • Słaby apetyt i utratę wagi
  • Obrzęk brzucha (wodobrzusze)
  • Zażółcenie skóry i białek oczu (żółtaczka)
  • Świąd skóry
Przerzuty do kości

Przerzuty do kości mogą powodować:12

  • Ból spowodowany uszkodzeniem kości
  • Ból pleców, który nasila się mimo odpoczynku
  • Osłabienie kości – łatwiejsze złamania
  • Podwyższony poziom wapnia we krwi (hiperkalcemia)
  • Niski poziom komórek krwi – anemia, zwiększone ryzyko infekcji, siniaczenia i krwawienia
Przerzuty do mózgu

Przerzuty do mózgu mogą objawiać się:12

  • Problemami z pamięcią
  • Zmianami nastroju lub osobowości
  • Drgawkami
  • Zaburzeniami świadomości
  • Silnymi bólami głowy, często z towarzyszącymi nudnościami
  • Osłabieniem kończyn
Przerzuty do przewodu pokarmowego

Większość osób nie ma objawów, gdy czerniak rozprzestrzenia się do jelita cienkiego. Jeśli jednak wystąpią, mogą obejmować:12

  • Ból w jamie brzusznej
  • Niestrawność
  • Nudności lub wymioty
  • Utratę wagi
  • Anemię

Ogólne objawy zaawansowanego raka skóry

Zaawansowany rak skóry, szczególnie czerniak, może powodować również ogólne objawy systemowe:123

  • Twarde lub obrzęknięte węzły chłonne
  • Twardy guzek na skórze
  • Niewyjaśniony ból
  • Uczucie dużego zmęczenia lub ogólne złe samopoczucie
  • Niewyjaśniona utrata wagi
  • Gorączka i dreszcze podobne do objawów grypopodobnych

Znaczenie wczesnej diagnostyki

Wczesne wykrycie raka skóry znacząco zwiększa szanse na wyleczenie. Regularne samobadanie skóry oraz profesjonalne kontrole dermatologiczne mają kluczowe znaczenie.12

Osoby z czynnikami ryzyka, takimi jak jasna karnacja, historia oparzeń słonecznych, rodzinne występowanie raka skóry czy liczne znamiona, powinny szczególnie uważnie monitorować swoją skórę.1

W przypadku zauważenia jakichkolwiek niepokojących zmian na skórze, takich jak nowa zmiana, zmiana w istniejącym znamieniu czy rana, która nie goi się, należy niezwłocznie skonsultować się z lekarzem.12

Pamiętaj, że rak skóry wykryty we wczesnym stadium może być całkowicie wyleczalny. W przypadku czerniaka zlokalizowanego (bez przerzutów) wskaźnik 5-letniego przeżycia wynosi ponad 99%.12

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 09.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Skin cancer symptoms | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/skin-cancer/symptoms
    Skin cancers can look very different and the symptoms can vary. Some of the symptoms are similar to other conditions. Common symptoms of skin cancer include a sore or area of skin that: doesn’t heal within 4 weeks […] hurts, is itchy, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks. Speak to your GP if you have any of these symptoms or are worried about any abnormal areas of skin. The sore can look see through, shiny and pink or pearly white. It can also look red. It may feel sore, rough and have raised edges. Look out for an area of skin that has broken down (an ulcer) and doesn’t heal within 4 weeks, and you can’t think of a reason for this change. This might be small, slow growing, shiny and pink or red. These red patches could also be itchy. A change to a mole or freckle can be a sign of another type of skin cancer called melanoma. Non melanoma skin cancer tends to develop most often on skin exposed to the sun. To spot skin cancer early it helps to know how your skin normally looks. That way, you’ll notice any changes more easily. You can take a photo of anything that doesn’t look quite right. If you can it’s a good idea to put a ruler or tape measure next to the abnormal area when you take the photo. This gives you a more accurate idea about its size and can help you tell if it’s changing. See your GP if you are worried about or have symptoms of skin cancer. They will examine you and arrange for a biopsy if needed. Non melanoma skin cancer includes basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin cancer and other rare types. They tend to develop most often on skin that has been exposed to the sun.
  • #1 Skin Cancer Symptoms: ABCDE Signs and What It Looks Like
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/skin-cancer/symptoms
    Even if a dermatologist has already examined a mole or lesion and said it’s not cancerous, it’s important to continue monitoring these skin irregularities. Any changes in the shape, color or size of existing spots should be examined by a health care professional. […] Basal cell carcinomas on the head or neck may first appear as a pale patch of skin or a waxy translucent bump. The patient may see blood vessels or an indentation in the center of the bump. If the carcinoma develops on the chest, it may look more like a brownish scar or flesh-colored lesion. As the cancer develops, it may bleed if injured or ooze and become crusty in some areas. […] Squamous cell carcinomas may also develop as a lump on the skin. These firm lumps are typically rough on the surface, unlike the smooth and pearly appearance of a basal cell carcinoma. If a nodule doesn’t form, the cancer may develop more like a reddish, scaly patch. Unlike a skin rash that goes away with time, these rough, lesion-like patches continue to develop slowly. This type of cancer is typically found on the head, neck, hands or arms, but they may also develop in other areas, such as the genital region or in scars or skin sores.
  • #1 Basal Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs and Images
    https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/basal-cell-carcinoma/bcc-warning-signs-images/
    A shiny bump or nodule that is pearly or clear, pink, red or white. The bump can also be pigmented (tan, black or brown), especially in people of color, and can be mistaken for a normal mole. […] A small pink growth with a slightly raised, rolled edge and a crusted indentation in the center that may develop tiny surface blood vessels over time. […] A scar-like area that is flat white, yellow or waxy in color. The skin appears shiny and taut, often with poorly defined borders. This warning sign may indicate an invasive BCC. […] Keep in mind that BCCs can look different from the pictures and descriptions above. In some people, BCCs resemble noncancerous skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. […] A BCC can recur even when it has been carefully removed the first time, because some cancer cells may remain undetectable after surgery and others can form roots that extend beyond what’s visible. BCCs on the nose, ears and lips are more likely to recur, usually within the first two years after surgery.
  • #1 Skin cancer (non-melanoma) | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/skin-cancer-non-melanoma/
    Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) appears as a firm pink lump and may have a flat, scaly and crusted surface. The lump is often tender to touch, bleeds easily and may develop into an ulcer. […] Bowen’s disease is a very early form of skin cancer, sometimes referred to as ‘squamous cell carcinoma in situ’. It develops slowly and is easily treated. The main sign is a red, scaly patch on the skin which may itch. It most commonly affects elderly women and is often found on the lower leg. However, it can appear on any area of the skin. […] If you develop a lump, lesion or skin discolouration that hasn’t healed after 4 weeks, speak to your GP. While it is unlikely to be cancer, it is best to be sure.
  • #1 Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
    https://www.webmd.com/melanoma-skin-cancer/squamous-cell-carcinoma
    Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a very common type of skin cancer that’s linked to sun damage. SCC is a fairly slow-growing skin cancer. When caught early, its easy to treat. Unlike some other types of skin cancer, it can spread to your tissues, bones, and nearby lymph nodes over time. If so, treatment can become more complex. […] If you sunburn easily, SCC is more likely to show up on parts of your body that have been exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds, like your head, neck, chest, upper back, ears, lips, arms, legs, and hands. […] According to the American Academy of Dermatology, SCC can show up as: A rough, scaly, red patch of skin, An open sore (with or without raised edges), A brown spot that looks like a typical age spot, A wart-like growth, A very small horn-like growth, A sore growing in an old scar, A smooth or sore reddish-white patch inside your mouth, A red, brown, or black line beneath a nail, A fingernail or toenail that seems to be shrinking.
  • #1 Skin cancer – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skin_cancer
    Basal-cell: painless raised area of skin that may be shiny with small blood vessel running over it or ulceration. […] Squamous-cell: hard lump with a scaly top. […] Melanoma: mole that has changed in size, shape, color, or has irregular edges. […] Basal-cell cancer grows slowly and can damage the tissue around it but is unlikely to spread to distant areas or result in death. […] It often appears as a painless raised area of skin that may be shiny with small blood vessels running over it or may present as a raised area with an ulcer. […] Squamous-cell skin cancer is more likely to spread. […] It usually presents as a hard lump with a scaly top but may also form an ulcer. […] Melanomas are the most aggressive. Signs include a mole that has changed in size, shape, color, has irregular edges, has more than one color, is itchy or bleeds.
  • #1 Melanoma | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/melanoma
    Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. A melanoma may appear as a new spot or as a change in the appearance of an existing mole or freckle. If untreated, melanomas can spread to other parts of the body and may not be curable so it is important to see your doctor as soon as you notice any changes to your skin. The first sign of flat melanoma is usually a new spot or an existing mole or freckle that changes in appearance. Some changes might include: […] The spot may grow larger. […] The edges of the spot may look irregular, rather than smooth. […] The spot may be mottled with a range of colours such as brown, black, blue, red, white or light grey. […] The spot may be itchy or bleed. Melanoma can grow very quickly. It can become life-threatening in as little as 6 weeks and, if untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. Nodular melanoma is a highly dangerous form of melanoma that looks different from common melanomas. Nodular melanomas are raised and are even in colour (often red or pink and some are brown or black). This type of melanoma grows quickly and can be life-threatening if not detected and removed quickly.
  • #1 Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Stages and Risk Groups | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/staging.html
    The stage of a basal or squamous cell skin cancer is a way of describing how large the cancer is and how far it has spread. Knowing the stage is important to help determine your treatment options and to get an idea of how likely the cancer is to come back after treatment. […] The stage of a basal or squamous cell skin cancer is based on the results of the physical exam, the skin biopsy (and any other biopsies), and imaging tests if they are done. […] Squamous cell skin cancers (SCCs) are more likely to spread (although this risk is still small), so determining the stage can be more important, particularly in people who are at higher risk. […] The stage of a skin cancer can help give an idea of how serious the cancer is likely to be, but other factors can also be important. […] Doctors look at these factors to help determine how likely it is that a skin cancer will come back after treatment (or spread to other parts of the body, in the case of squamous cell skin cancer).
  • #1 Stages of Melanoma – AIM at Melanoma Foundation
    https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/stages-of-melanoma/
    Stage 0 melanoma, the malignant tumor is still confined to the upper layer of the skin. The cancer cells are only in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) and have not grown any deeper (into the dermis). The melanoma is in situ, which means “in place” in Latin. There is no evidence the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or distant sites (metastasis). […] In Stage I melanoma, there are cancer cells in both the epidermis and dermis. A Stage I melanoma is up to 2mm thick (Breslow thickness) and may or may not have ulceration. There is no evidence the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or distant sites (metastasis). […] Stage II melanoma is defined by tumor thickness and ulceration. There are cancer cells in both the epidermis and dermis. There is no evidence the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or distant sites (metastasis).
  • #1 Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Stages and Risk Groups | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/staging.html
    BCCs are at high risk of coming back after treatment if they have any of the following features: The tumor is on the trunk (chest or back), arm, or leg (other than the front of the lower leg), AND its at least 2 centimeters (cm) across. […] SCCs are divided into 3 risk groups, based on how likely they are to spread or to come back after treatment. […] SCCs in the very high risk group have an increased risk of both coming back after treatment and of spreading to another part of the body. […] SCCs in the high risk group have an increased risk of coming back after treatment.
  • #1 Symptoms of advanced melanoma skin cancer | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/melanoma/advanced-melanoma/symptoms-advanced-melanoma
    Advanced melanoma skin cancer means it has spread to another part of the body such as the liver, lungs or bone. […] Some people may not get symptoms when they have advanced cancer. Their doctor may find the cancer has spread during a scan for a follow up appointment. If they do have symptoms, these will depend on where the cancer has spread to. […] The symptoms of advanced cancer depend on where the cancer is in your body. But general symptoms might include: hard or swollen lymph nodes, a hard lump on your skin, unexplained pain, feeling very tired or unwell, unexplained weight loss. […] If the cancer has spread to your lymph nodes they can feel hard or swollen. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck area can make it hard to swallow. […] You may have any of these symptoms if your cancer has spread into the lungs: a cough that doesn’t go away, breathlessness, ongoing chest infections, coughing up blood, a buildup of fluid between the chest wall and the lung (a pleural effusion).
  • #1 Symptoms of advanced melanoma skin cancer | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/melanoma/advanced-melanoma/symptoms-advanced-melanoma
    You might have any of the following symptoms if your cancer has spread to the liver: discomfort or pain on the right side of your tummy (abdomen), feeling sick, poor appetite and weight loss, a swollen tummy (called ascites), yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), itchy skin. […] You might have any of the following symptoms if your cancer has spread to the bones: pain from breakdown of the bone the pain is continuous and people often describe it as gnawing, backache, which gets worse despite resting, weaker bones they can break more easily, raised blood calcium (hypercalcaemia), which can cause dehydration, confusion, sickness, tummy (abdominal) pain and constipation, low levels of blood cells blood cells are made in the bone marrow and can be crowded out by the cancer cells, causing anaemia, increased risk of infection, bruising and bleeding.
  • #1 Symptoms of advanced melanoma skin cancer | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/melanoma/advanced-melanoma/symptoms-advanced-melanoma
    You might have any of the following symptoms if the cancer has spread to your brain: memory problems, mood or personality changes, seizures, confusion, severe headaches, often with sickness, weakness of an arm or leg. […] Most people don’t have any symptoms if the melanoma has spread to the small bowel. But if you do they might include: pain in the abdomen, indigestion, feeling or being sick, weight loss, anaemia.
  • #1 Symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer – NHS
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/symptoms/
    The main symptom of non-melanoma skin cancer is a growth or unusual patch on the skin. […] The growths or patches can vary in colour, size and texture. […] A new mole or a change in an existing mole may be a sign of melanoma. This is a more serious type of skin cancer. […] you have a growth on your skin that’s getting bigger or has changed colour or texture […] you have a growth or area of skin that hurts, itches, bleeds, crusts or scabs for more than 4 weeks. […] Finding non-melanoma skin cancer early can mean it’s easier to treat. […] You may get an urgent referral for more tests or to see a specialist in hospital if the GP thinks you have symptoms that could be cancer. This does not definitely mean you have cancer.
  • #1 Skin Cancer – BAD Patient Hub
    https://www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk/symptoms-treatments/skin-cancer/
    People who burn easily in the sun are particularly at risk. Melanoma occurs most often in fair-skinned people who tan poorly. Often they have blond or red hair, blue or green eyes, and freckle easily. […] Melanomas are less common in dark-skinned people. When they do occur they are often on the hand or foot, unusual sites for melanoma in fair-skinned people. […] Past episodes of severe sunburn, often with blisters, particularly in childhood, increase the risk of developing melanoma. However, not all melanomas are due to sun exposure and some may appear in skin that is not usually exposed to the sun. […] People with many (more than 50) ordinary moles, or with very large (greater than 20cm in diameter) dark hairy birthmarks, have a slightly higher than average chance of developing a melanoma.
  • #1 Facts About Skin Cancer | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
    https://www.fredhutch.org/en/diseases/skin-cancer/facts-resources.html
    Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. When its detected and treated early, the cure rate is high. […] The best way to detect skin cancer before it spreads and becomes difficult to cure is to carefully and regularly examine your own skin and to have routine exams by your health care provider. […] Other possible signs of skin cancer such as a small sore that bleeds, scabs and heals or a reddish patch that crusts over and itches can be a benign (noncancerous) condition or something more serious. […] Basal cell carcinomas may bleed after a minor injury but then scab and heal. This can happen over and over for months or years with no visible growth, making it easy to mistake them for wounds or sores. They rarely cause pain in their earliest stages. […] Generally found on the ears, face and mouth, squamous cell carcinoma can be more aggressive than basal cell. Untreated, it may push through the skin layers to the lymphatic system, bloodstream and nerve routes, where it can cause pain and symptoms of serious illness.
  • #1 Early stage skin cancer: Pictures and more
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/early-stage-skin-cancer
    The outlook is better for skin cancer when there is early detection and treatment, and it is essential to seek help as soon as changes occur. […] In stage 1, cancer has formed, and the tumor is 2 centimeters (cm) or smaller. […] Stage 1 skin cancer can vary in appearance depending on the type of skin cancer. Generally, it appears as a small growth or sore with a pearly or waxy appearance. It may also look like a red, scaly patch or a pink or flesh-colored bump. […] With early detection and prompt treatment, the outlook for skin cancer is generally high. For instance, a person with localized melanoma has over 99% chance of surviving another 5 years after diagnosis compared with someone without melanoma. However, untreated, skin cancer can spread to other body parts, making treatment more challenging. […] Skin cancer is highly treatable with early detection. Early stage skin cancer is the initial phase when the cancer is small and has not yet spread beyond the top layer of the skin. […] The ABCDE method can help people recognize the early signs of melanoma skin cancer.
  • #2 Skin Cancer: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/skin-cancer
    Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Each year, about 3.5 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed. Non-melanoma skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are not likely to spread and may require little more than minor surgery or topical treatment. Melanoma, which accounts for about 1 percent of all skin cancers but is responsible for most skin cancer deaths, may spread (metastasize) through the lymphatic system or bloodstream to other organs. […] Individuals should pay attention for warning signs of skin cancer, including: […] An unusual skin growth or sore that doesn’t go away, such as a nodule, rash or irregular patch on the surface of the skin […] A pale patch of skin or a waxy or pearly white translucent bump on the head or neck, or a brownish scar or flesh-colored lesion on the chest, which may be signs of basal cell carcinomas […] Firm, rough lumps on the surface of the skin, sometimes developing more like a reddish, scaly patch if a nodule doesn’t form, which may be signs of squamous cell carcinomas […] Red or flesh-colored moles that are raised and grow quickly, which may be a sign of Merkel cell carcinomas.
  • #2 Symptoms of Skin Cancer | Skin Cancer | CDC
    https://www.cdc.gov/skin-cancer/symptoms/index.html
    A change in your skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. This could be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole. Not all skin cancers look the same. […] Talk to your doctor if you notice changes in your skin such as a new growth, a sore that doesnt heal, a change in an old growth, or any of the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma.
  • #2 Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck – Symptoms and Treatmentphone iconphone iconphone iconGroup 49Group 49
    https://www.barrowneuro.org/condition/skin-cancer-of-the-head-and-neck/
    Changes in your head and neck skin are the most obvious signs of skin cancers of the head and neck, such as new growths, sores that don’t heal, or changes in existing moles (size, shape, color). BCCs often look like flesh-colored round growths, pearly bumps, or pinkish patches of skin. SCCs might appear as rough or scaly red patches, open sores, or raised growths with a central depression; they may crust or bleed. Melanomas are often noticeable through a change in a mole or the appearance of a new, darkly colored, or unusual-looking growth on the skin. […] Head and neck skin cancers can manifest through various symptoms, often appearing as changes on the skin’s surface. Early recognition of these signs can be crucial for timely treatment. Here are the symptoms you might notice, broken down by the most common types of skin cancer:
  • #2 Basal Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs and Images
    https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/basal-cell-carcinoma/bcc-warning-signs-images/
    Understanding what basal cell carcinoma (BCC) looks like is important. With early detection and treatment, almost all basal cell skin cancers can be successfully removed without complications. […] Look out for BCC warning signs, including new, changing or unusual skin growths, so you can spot skin cancers early, when they are easiest to treat and cure. […] Check for BCCs where your skin is most exposed to the sun, especially the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, shoulders and back, but remember that they can occur anywhere on the body. Frequently, two or more of these warning signs and symptoms are apparent in a BCC tumor. […] An open sore that does not heal, and may bleed, ooze or crust. The sore might persist for weeks, or appear to heal and then come back. […] A reddish patch or irritated area, on the face, chest, shoulder, arm or leg that may crust, itch, hurt or cause no discomfort.
  • #2
    https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/cancer/skin-cancer-melanoma
    Skin cancer symptoms vary depending on the type of skin cancer thats causing them. […] Basal cell carcinoma skin cancer symptoms often look like a small, dome-shaped pimple, with a pearly color. You might see blood vessels on the surface. In other cases, basal cell carcinoma skin cancers may look like a pink, shiny patch or a sore that doesnt heal. […] Squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer symptoms usually look like a red, crusty or scaly patch, a sore or a firm red bump. Youll usually see these skin cancer signs on skin thats been exposed to the sun. […] Malignant melanoma often develops in or near a mole. Typical melanoma skin cancer symptoms include a mole that is painful, itchy or bleeding, or a mole that has changed shape, color or size. […] If you answered yes to any of these questions or if youre concerned about a suspicious mole or bump that may indicate early signs of skin cancer or melanoma symptoms schedule an appointment with your doctor.
  • #2 Skin Cancer Symptoms: ABCDE Signs and What It Looks Like
    https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/skin-cancer/symptoms
    Even if a dermatologist has already examined a mole or lesion and said it’s not cancerous, it’s important to continue monitoring these skin irregularities. Any changes in the shape, color or size of existing spots should be examined by a health care professional. […] Basal cell carcinomas on the head or neck may first appear as a pale patch of skin or a waxy translucent bump. The patient may see blood vessels or an indentation in the center of the bump. If the carcinoma develops on the chest, it may look more like a brownish scar or flesh-colored lesion. As the cancer develops, it may bleed if injured or ooze and become crusty in some areas. […] Squamous cell carcinomas may also develop as a lump on the skin. These firm lumps are typically rough on the surface, unlike the smooth and pearly appearance of a basal cell carcinoma. If a nodule doesn’t form, the cancer may develop more like a reddish, scaly patch. Unlike a skin rash that goes away with time, these rough, lesion-like patches continue to develop slowly. This type of cancer is typically found on the head, neck, hands or arms, but they may also develop in other areas, such as the genital region or in scars or skin sores.
  • #2 Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Symptoms, Stages, Risk Factors and Treatment | Saint John’s Cancer Institute
    https://www.saintjohnscancer.org/melanoma/conditions/squamous-cell-carcinoma-of-the-skin/
    Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer that typically develops from chronic sun-exposed areas of your body. SCC manifests as uncontrolled growth of cells in the epidermis though is typically far less aggressive as melanoma. The growth of cells can become disfiguring and sometimes deadly if untreated. […] Squamous cell cancers of the skin can commonly present as: Scaly red patches, Open sores, Elevated growths with a central depression, Warts, They may crust or bleed. […] Most squamous cell cancer of the skin present as Stage 0 or 1. This gives doctors greater opportunities to treat the cancer early, which may be final and curative. […] Stage 0 is not considered invasive cancer. Abnormal cells exist only in the upper layer of the skin. […] These stages are determined by the size of cancer and if high-risk features exist.
  • #2 Skin Cancer: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and More
    https://www.health.com/condition/skin-cancer-overview
    Skin cancer usually develops on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the scalp, face, ears, neck, chest, arms, and hands. Cancerous lesions can appear anywhere, even in the genital area. People of color may develop skin cancer in the mouth, on the palms of the hands, or underneath the nails. […] General skin cancer signs and symptoms include: A brown patch of skin (in people of color), A mole that changes in shape, size, color, or feel, A new growth, A sore that does not heal. […] Melanoma often shows up as a new spot on the skin. This so-called „ugly duckling” looks different from all other surrounding skin. Melanoma can also show up in an existing mole. […] It’s important to be aware of any spots or moles in either case. The „ABCDE rule” may help you identify potential melanomas: A for asymmetry: One half of the spot or mole does not match the other half. B for border: The perimeter is ragged. C for color: The spot or mole has multiple hues. D for diameter: Melanomas can range in size but are often larger than a pencil eraser. E for evolving: The spot or mole is changing in size, shape, or color.
  • #2 Melanoma Skin Cancer Symptoms, Treatment | Froedtert & MCW
    https://www.froedtert.com/skin-cancer/melanoma
    Melanoma is one type of skin cancer. It can happen anywhere on your body including on the palms of the hands, bottoms of the feet and under the nails. […] While it is not as common as other types of skin cancer (1% of skin cancers are melanoma) melanoma is more aggressive and is more likely to spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, bones or brain. It can grow very quickly and, in the most advanced stage, become life-threatening in as little as six weeks. But melanoma is highly curable when discovered and treated in its earliest stages. […] Melanoma can appear as a change in how a mole you already have looks (increase in size, change in color, shape, feel) or it can be a new area on the skin that looks and feels different. When melanoma becomes advanced, it can bleed, itch become painful or look raw or scraped.
  • #2 Stages of Melanoma – AIM at Melanoma Foundation
    https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/stages-of-melanoma/
    Stage III melanoma is defined by the level of lymph node involvement and ulceration. In Stage III melanoma, the cancer has spread to one or more regional lymph nodes or has developed a deposit of melanoma in the skin or dermis along the lymphatics prior to reaching a lymph node called an in transit or satellite metastasis. There is no evidence the cancer has spread to distant sites (metastasis). […] In Stage IV melanoma, the cancer has spread beyond the original tumor site and regional lymph nodes to more distant areas of the body. The most common sites of metastasis are distant skin and lymph nodes, then lungs, liver, brain, bone, and/or intestines. The level of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) may or may not be elevated. […] Brain metastases, a specific form of Stage IV melanoma, are one of the most common and difficult-to-treat complications of melanoma. They differ from all other metastases in terms of risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment.
  • #2 Symptoms of advanced melanoma skin cancer | Cancer Research UK
    https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/melanoma/advanced-melanoma/symptoms-advanced-melanoma
    You might have any of the following symptoms if your cancer has spread to the liver: discomfort or pain on the right side of your tummy (abdomen), feeling sick, poor appetite and weight loss, a swollen tummy (called ascites), yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), itchy skin. […] You might have any of the following symptoms if your cancer has spread to the bones: pain from breakdown of the bone the pain is continuous and people often describe it as gnawing, backache, which gets worse despite resting, weaker bones they can break more easily, raised blood calcium (hypercalcaemia), which can cause dehydration, confusion, sickness, tummy (abdominal) pain and constipation, low levels of blood cells blood cells are made in the bone marrow and can be crowded out by the cancer cells, causing anaemia, increased risk of infection, bruising and bleeding.
  • #2 Signs and symptoms of advanced melanoma | Macmillan Cancer Support
    https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/melanoma/advanced-melanoma/signs-and-symptoms-of-advanced-melanoma
    Advanced melanoma can cause different symptoms. This depends on where in the body melanoma has spread to. […] You may notice a lump and the lymph nodes may feel hard and swollen. Sometimes, they press on tissues or nerves nearby, causing pain. […] Melanoma that spreads to areas of skin far away from the original melanoma appears as firm or hard lumps called nodules. Or there may be flat, grey or purple areas of skin. These lumps or areas may bleed. […] If melanoma spreads to the lungs, it may cause symptoms such as breathlessness, a cough, and coughing up blood. […] Melanoma that has spread to the brain may cause headaches and sickness. These can be worse first thing in the morning. Other symptoms depend on the area of the brain affected. They may include numbness or weakness in a limb, or having a seizure (fit).
  • #2 Signs and symptoms of advanced melanoma | Macmillan Cancer Support
    https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/melanoma/advanced-melanoma/signs-and-symptoms-of-advanced-melanoma
    Melanoma that has spread to the liver can cause discomfort or pain in the liver area the right side of the tummy, under the ribs, and sickness. […] If melanoma spreads to the bones, it can cause bone pain. […] Secondary cancer in the bones of the spine can put pressure on the nerves of the spinal cord. This is called malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC). If you have symptoms of spinal cord compression, contact your doctor immediately as you may need urgent surgery or radiotherapy. Symptoms include back or neck pain, which might feel like a band around your chest or tummy, muscle weakness, numbness and weakness in the legs, and problems controlling your bladder or bowels. […] If the melanoma spreads to the digestive system, it can cause pain in the tummy (abdomen), constipation or diarrhoea for no obvious reason, sickness (vomiting), vomiting up blood, and blood in your poo (stools). […] The general symptoms of advanced melanoma include weight loss, loss of appetite, and feeling very tired (fatigued).
  • #2 Symptoms & Diagnosis | ACMS – American College of Mohs Surgery
    https://www.mohscollege.org/for-patients/skin-cancer-resources/symptoms-diagnosis
    If you notice a suspicious change on your skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist for a skin cancer screening as soon as possible. Examining your skin on a monthly basis is the best way to catch skin cancer as early as possible. Pay attention to any changes. Early diagnosis and treatment increase your chances of curing the cancer.
  • #2 Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer – The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Prevent Skin Cancer – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK247171/
    Melanomas diagnosed at earlier stages are much more treatable than those diagnosed at later stages. Anyone can get skin cancer, and everyone should know the symptoms of this disease. Changes in the skin, such as a new growth, a sore that does not heal, or a change in an existing mole, are the most common signs of skin cancer. […] Not all skin cancers look the same. If a person notices a change in the skin, such as a new growth, a sore that does not heal, a change in an old growth, or any of the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma, he or she should consult a doctor.
  • #2 Skin Cancer: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and More
    https://www.health.com/condition/skin-cancer-overview
    A healthcare provider typically does not need to stage BCC and rarely SCC since these cancers do not typically spread. They will stage melanoma, in contrast, based on how big it is and whether it has spread. Staging melanoma helps guide treatment. […] Melanoma stages range from 0 to IV, including: Stage 0: The cancer is localized in the epidermis, also known as melanoma in situ. Stage I: The tumor is no larger than 2 millimeters (mm) and may be ulcerated. Cancer cells have not spread beyond the epidermis. Stage II: The tumor is larger than 1 mm, might be thicker than 4 mm, and can be ulcerated. Cancer cells are still localized in the epidermis. Stage III: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or skin, also known as satellite tumors. Stage IV: Cancer cells have spread to nearby lymph nodes and distant body parts, such as the lungs, brain, or spinal cord. […] Skin cancer can be highly treatable if diagnosed and treated early. BCC and SCC are associated with better outcomes than melanoma, which is more aggressive. Localized melanoma has a five-year survival rate of over 99%, whereas distant melanoma has a 35% survival rate.
  • #3 Skin cancer (non-melanoma) | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/cancer/cancer-types-in-adults/skin-cancer-non-melanoma/
    Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Non-melanoma skin cancer refers to a group of cancers that slowly develop in the upper layers of the skin. The first sign of non-melanoma skin cancer is usually the appearance of a lump or patch on the skin that doesn’t heal after a few weeks. In most cases, cancerous lumps are red and firm, while cancerous patches are often flat and scaly. […] The main symptom of non-melanoma skin cancer is the appearance of a lump or discoloured patch on the skin that doesn’t heal. The lump or discoloured patch is the cancer, sometimes referred to as a tumour. Non-melanoma skin cancer most often appears on areas of skin which are regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, hands and shoulders. […] Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) usually appears as a small red or pink lump, although it can be pearly-white or ‘waxy’ looking. It can also look like a red, scaly patch. The lump slowly grows and may become crusty, bleed or develop into a painless ulcer.
  • #3
    https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/cancer/skin-cancer-melanoma
    Skin cancer symptoms vary depending on the type of skin cancer thats causing them. […] Basal cell carcinoma skin cancer symptoms often look like a small, dome-shaped pimple, with a pearly color. You might see blood vessels on the surface. In other cases, basal cell carcinoma skin cancers may look like a pink, shiny patch or a sore that doesnt heal. […] Squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer symptoms usually look like a red, crusty or scaly patch, a sore or a firm red bump. Youll usually see these skin cancer signs on skin thats been exposed to the sun. […] Malignant melanoma often develops in or near a mole. Typical melanoma skin cancer symptoms include a mole that is painful, itchy or bleeding, or a mole that has changed shape, color or size. […] If you answered yes to any of these questions or if youre concerned about a suspicious mole or bump that may indicate early signs of skin cancer or melanoma symptoms schedule an appointment with your doctor.
  • #3 Melanoma Skin Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments | SERO
    https://treatcancer.com/blog/the-abcdes-of-melanoma/
    Melanoma can be organized into several different stages, ranging from lowest to highest risk. In early stages (stages 0-2), the skin cancer hasn’t yet spread to other areas of the body, while in advanced stages (3-4), cancer cells may have reached lymph nodes or even organs. […] Overall, melanoma can be understood through these standardized stages of skin cancer: Stage 0: Melanoma is contained to the outermost layer of skin. Stage I: Melanoma has penetrated the top layer of the skin and is smaller than 1 mm in depth. Stage II: Melanoma is deeper than 1 mm, but still hasn’t spread to other areas. Stage III: Melanoma has spread to the lymph nodes or a lymph vessel. Stage IV: Melanoma has spread to other lymph nodes or even organs, putting the patient at very high risk. […] Remember that melanoma detected in early stages is highly curable, with a 99% five-year survival rate. […] Bottom line: melanoma is a curable disease when caught early. While not all melanomas show symptoms before spreading, the vast majority of cases begin with an abnormal mole or growth on the skin. If detected during this stage, the cure rate is very high.
  • #3 7 Signs Your Melanoma Has Spread – Massive Bio
    https://massivebio.com/7-signs-your-melanoma-has-spread/
    7 signs your melanoma has spread marks a critical juncture in the journey of individuals diagnosed with this form of skin cancer. The signs of metastasis include new lumps in the skin or other areas like the lungs, liver, brain, or bones, unexplained pain, weight loss, and neurological symptoms such as headaches or seizures. […] Other signs to watch for include jaundice, persistent cough, shortness of breath, and changes in existing moles or the appearance of new, suspicious moles. […] The signs and symptoms described in this article can also be caused by many other health conditions, so dont assume that your melanoma has metastasized if you notice any of them. […] Recognizing melanoma symptoms and understanding the progression from early signs of melanoma to late stage melanoma is essential for timely and effective treatment. Signs of melanoma cancer may initially be subtle, such as a new mole or a change in an existing moles appearance. However, as the cancer progresses, more specific symptoms may emerge, indicating a more advanced stage or the development of metastatic melanoma. These can include unexpected weight loss, persistent fatigue, and the appearance of new, unusual growths on the skin.