Early Signs Of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. If you are diagnosed with cancer, Dr. Adam Pritzker of Savannah Dermatology Clinic in Savannah, GA, can help.


Types of Skin Cancer

  • Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancer: Both these are usually found in areas exposed to the sun and are treatable.

  • Merkel Cell Skin Cancer: This cancer usually develops on your face, head, or neck as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule.

  • Melanoma Skin Cancer: Melanoma develops as a mole, or a dark spot on your skin, and isn't as common as other types of cancers.

  • Skin Lymphoma: Also called cutaneous lymphomas, this cancer starts in the immune system's cells.


Early Signs of Skin Cancer

The best way to prevent cancer is to take proper preventative measures. Make sure you apply sunblock and avoid the sun when it's hard, especially if you're fair-skinned and/or have light-colored eyes. Avoid the sun if you have a history of sunburns, avoid the sun if you live in a sunny or high-altitude climate, and keep an eye out for any moles and precancerous skin lesions.


If you have a family/personal history of skin cancer or a weak immune system, you need to have regular checkups with your Savannah dermatologist. You may have an increased chance of developing skin cancer if you've been exposed to radiation treatment or certain substances like arsenic.


Another preventative measure is knowing what to look out for. Symptoms of skin cancer vary from one type of cancer to another.


1. Basal Cell Skin Cancer Symptoms:

  • waxy bump
  • flat, flesh-colored lesion
  • brown scar-like lesion
  • a sore that heals and returns

2. Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Symptoms:

  • firm, red nodule
  • a flat lesion with a crusty surface

3. Melanoma Skin Cancer:

  • large brown spot with dark speckles
  • a mole that may alter it's color, size, or feel
  • a mole that bleeds
  • a painful lesion that itches


Would you like to speak with a skin cancer specialist?

For more information about skin cancer, call Dr. Adam Pritzker of Savannah Dermatology Clinic in Savannah, GA, by calling 912-352-8974.

Contact Us

Our Location

712 E 70th St Savannah, GA 31405

Office Hours

Monday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-5:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-4:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed