What are skin lesions?
Skin lesions are lumps, bumps, cysts, and other noncancerous growths on your skin. Some of the common types of skin lesions include:
- Moles
- Actinic keratosis
- Seborrheic keratosis
- Carbuncles
- Warts
- Ulcers
- Rashes such as eczema
The different types of skin lesions have varying appearances. For example, an actinic keratosis looks like a small patch of raised, scaly, red skin, while warts are raised lumps that may appear whitish or flesh colored.
You know your skin and should examine it at home regularly. If you see any new growths or changing moles, you should make an appointment to have them checked and possibly removed.
Are skin lesions cancerous?
In most cases, skin lesions aren’t cancerous. However, actinic keratosis is often considered as precancerous cells and should be treated as rapidly as possible. Moles can also become cancerous, so you should pay attention to your moles, and if any of them change shape, size, or color, you should make an appointment with a doctor.
When should I talk to a doctor about skin lesions?
In most cases, patients have skin lesions removed to either reduce their risk of cancer or because they don’t like the appearance of the growth on their skin. Your appearance is your decision, and Dr. Sahai can remove any moles or growths that interfere with your self-confidence. However, if you have any evolving moles or signs of actinic keratosis, you should seek treatment immediately.
How are skin lesions diagnosed?
Dr. Sahai scrutinizes your skin, feeling any lumps or cysts on your skin. If he needs more information, he may use a biopsy procedure to take a sample of cells for further testing. He may scrape a sample of cells from the surface of your growth or take a plug of cells using a specialized puncture device.
How are skin lesions treated?
In most cases, Dr. Sahai uses surgical removal procedures to treat skin lesions. Depending on your specific needs, he may use a simple excision procedure, cryotherapy, or laser treatment to remove your growth.
If you’re concerned about a skin lesion or abnormal growth on your skin, call Sahai Surgical Specialists or schedule a consultation online today.
