Skin Lesions
Lipomas
Are single or multiple benign subcutaneous tumors that are easily recognized because they are soft, rounded, or lobulated and movable against the overlying skin. Many lipomas are small but may also enlarge to 6 cm.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
is a superficial, slowly growing papule or nodule that derives from certain epidermal cells. Metastasis is rare, but local growth can be highly destructive. Diagnosis is by biopsy. Treatment depends on the tumours’ characteristics surgical excision, cryosurgery, topical chemotherapy, or, occasionally, radiation therapy or drug therapy.
Moles (Naevi)
are common small flesh-coloured, tan, brown, or black spots on the skin. Their main significance (other than cosmetic) is their resemblance to melanoma. Pigmented lesions are assessed for characteristics of concern (new or changing appearance, irregular borders, multiple colours within one lesion, bleeding, ulceration, or itching) that could suggest atypical nevi or melanoma.
Skin Abscess
Melanoma (Skin Cancer)
It is not unusual for patients or their spouses to recognize cutaneous (skin) melanomas. Caught early, most melanomas can be cured with relatively minor surgery. Melanoma can be more serious than the other forms of skin cancer because it tends to spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, causing serious illness and death.
