Chad Weaver, MD, Winona Health Dermatologist Erin Hanson, CNP, Winona Health Dermatology
A spot that wasn’t there before. A mole that looks a little different. It’s easy to second guess, but those small changes are worth paying attention to.
A simple monthly skin check can help you get familiar with what’s normal for you. Look over your entire body, including your back, scalp, palms, soles and between your toes. Use a mirror for hard-to-see areas, or ask someone you trust to help. And of course, offer to do the same for them.
If you notice a mole or spot, the ABCDE rule can help you decide next steps. It outlines the warning signs of melanoma, a serious type of skin cancer that should be treated as soon as possible:
- A – Asymmetry: One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
- B – Border: The spot has an irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined border.
- C – Color: The spot has varying colors from one area to the next, such as shades of tan, brown or black, or areas of white, red, or blue.
- D – Diameter: While melanomas are usually greater than 6 mm (about the size of a pencil eraser), when diagnosed, they can be smaller.
- E – Evolving: The spot looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape, or color.
If you notice a mole or other spot on your skin with any of the warning signs above or that:
- Is changing or might look different than before.
- Is somewhat painful, itchy or bleeds easily.
- Doesn’t heal or that constantly reoccurs.
Schedule an appointment as soon as possible. We will get you in without the wait, often with same day appointments.
What to expect during a skin check If there’s a specific spot of concern, that can be the focus. A full-body exam is also an option.
For a full-body exam, you’ll change into a gown – leaving undergarments on if you prefer. We will carefully look at your skin from scalp to soles using a dermatoscope—a small handheld tool that helps see details more clearly.
If a spot needs a closer look, a photo may be taken for your record. In some cases, a small sample (biopsy) may be taken after numbing the area and sent for evaluation. We’ll contact you with the results and to discuss any follow-up care if necessary.
As with other health-related issues, when it comes to caring for your skin, the best decision is to be proactive in getting issues checked out early – before they become more difficult to treat.
Changes in your skin are worth paying attention to. Not every spot is serious, but it is worth checking. A simple guide to checking skin, understanding what to watch for, and knowing when it is time to be seen is available at winonahealth.org/derm.
Have a concern? Give us a call. We will help you get in quickly, often the same day. To schedule an appointment with the Winona Health Dermatology department, call 507.457.7674.
Chad Weaver, MD
Erin Hanson, CNP