Have Lesions On Your Skin? Why You Should Have This Looked At By A Dermatologist

If you have lesions on your skin that were never there before, this is often due to sun exposure. You should have the lesions looked at immediately, as these can easily turn into cancer. If you do see a dermatologist and have the lesion removed, however, you will not have to worry about getting cancer. Below is information about these lesions, as well as how dermatology can be used to treat them. 

Actinic Keratosis

These lesions are known as actinic keratosis. Most people that have these lesions are older as the longer your skin is exposed to the sun the increased chance that you will get these lesions. If you live in an area that has mild winters, you may get lesions when you are much younger, however. 

You will find these lesions on the areas of your skin that were exposed to the sun, such as your face, arms, backs of your hands, and ears. The lesions may the same color as your skin but when you touch the area it will feel very dry. The lesions may also be a yellowish or reddish color and be a raised bump. 

You should not feel any pain when you touch these lesions. If the lesions feel tender to the touch, then this is a sign that the lesions have already turned into cancer. If you see any type of bleeding coming from the lesion or if it changes in appearance, this is another sign you have cancer. 

Actinic Keratosis Treatment

See a dermatologist if you have skin lesions. The dermatologist can tell you if you should have them removed. If the doctor does suggest this, there are many treatment options available including:

Surgery

If the dermatologist thinks the lesion is cancerous, they will suggest that you have it surgically removed. The dermatologist will then remove the lesion and send it to a lab to have it examined for cancer cells. Once the doctor receives the results from the lab, they will then determine a treatment plan for you if they do find cancer. 

Cryosurgery

The dermatologist may choose a treatment known as cryosurgery. With this, the dermatologist uses a special tool that places liquid nitrogen on the surface of the lesion. This liquid nitrogen freezes the area, which will then cause the lesion to fall off. After the procedure, you will have some blistering until your new skin has grown back.

A dermatologist can give you information about other treatment options that are available to you. 

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