It’s a common question: “When should I See Doctor about a skin concern?” The straightforward answer is, if you notice a new skin lesion or a mole that exhibits any of the ABCDE characteristics or fits the “Ugly Duckling” rule, it’s time to book an appointment with a healthcare professional experienced in melanoma. Identifying new or changing moles and lesions is crucial for early detection, as melanoma represents the most dangerous form of skin cancer. If melanoma is left untreated, it can spread and become life-threatening. Therefore, knowing when to see doctor is a vital step in safeguarding your health.
Trust Your Gut Feeling and See a Doctor
If you have any concerns about a spot on your skin, don’t hesitate to schedule a visit to see doctor. Your intuition is important. And if you feel a second opinion is necessary, don’t hesitate to seek one.
Important Reminder: If you are unable to get an appointment within a week or two, even after expressing your concerns about potential melanoma, it’s crucial to contact another physician’s office.
Early Warning Signs: When to See Doctor for Melanoma
Early detection of melanoma is significantly improved with regular skin self-exams. Performing a skin self-exam once a month, from head to toe, is recommended. During these exams, pay close attention to the shape and texture of your moles and blemishes. Utilize the ABCDE method as a guide:
- Asymmetry: Is the mole asymmetrical or unevenly shaped?
- Borders: Are the borders indistinct, uneven, or blurry?
- Color: Does the mole have multiple colors?
- Diameter: Is the diameter larger than a ¼ inch (about 6 mm) across?
- Evolving: Is the mole evolving? Evolution can manifest as getting bigger, swelling, becoming itchy or tender, developing a crust or scab, or starting to bleed.
Additionally, be aware of the Ugly Duckling Rule: An “Ugly Duckling” mole or lesion stands out from the others on your skin. It might be lighter or darker, larger or smaller than the surrounding moles.
If any mole or lesion matches the ABCDE criteria or the Ugly Duckling Rule, you should promptly schedule an appointment to see doctor, specifically a dermatologist, for professional evaluation.
Close-up image highlighting skin cancer awareness.
Tools to Aid in Skin Monitoring: When to See Doctor and How to Track Changes
Memory alone isn’t always reliable, especially if you have numerous moles, dysplastic moles, or a history of melanoma. In such cases, consider discussing total-body photography with your doctor. This technique, offered by some dermatologists, creates a baseline record of your moles, making it easier to detect changes during future examinations and help determine when to see doctor for any new or evolving lesions. Total body photography records can be reviewed in the clinic and at home for comparison. Alternatively, some doctors take and store photos of moles in your files for annual review. If total body photography isn’t offered or covered by insurance, you can proactively take photos of your moles or lesions yourself to show your doctor during your annual check-up, facilitating better monitoring and decisions about when to see doctor.
