Skin cancer is the most prevalent kind of cancer worldwide. Skin cancer on the scalp may resemble a mole, ulcer, sore, or other development. Symptoms of skin cancer on the scalp can change shape, color, or size, and they may itch or bleed, raising concerns about skin cancer.
The kind and degree of skin cancer determine the appropriate treatment. Early cancer diagnosis improves treatment outcomes.
The type of skin cancer a person has will affect the therapy they receive and their prognosis. Skin cancer is diagnosed utilizing a physical examination, blood tests, biopsies, and imaging scans.
Early Signs of Skin Cancer on the Scalp
To screen for symptoms of skin cancer on the scalp, scalp skin should be examined regularly. Early warning signs of scalp skin cancer differ depending on the kind of malignancy.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
BCC is the most frequent kind of skin cancer. BCCs account for around 75 percent of all non-melanoma skin malignancies. They arise from basal cells in the deepest section of the skin’s outer layer (the epidermis). They primarily appear on sun-exposed skin.
- Small, Shiny Bump: Translucent, pearly, with visible blood vessels.
- Flat, scaly patch: red, pink, and slow growing.
- Ulceration that bleeds and does not heal.
- may feel itchy or tender.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
SCCs often develop quicker than basal cell tumors. SCCs account for approximately 23 out of every 100 cases of skin cancer. They begin in epidermal cells known as keratinocytes.
- Raised, Firm Nodule has a scaly, crusty surface.
- may bleed or develop scabs.
- pain or discomfort.
- lesion develops swiftly and grows rapidly.
Melanoma:
- Asymmetry describes an uneven form.
- Borders are irregular, with jagged or blurry borders.
- Multiple colors: Brown, black, blue, and red.
- Size: Typically, more than 6 mm.
- may itch, hurt, or bleed.
- When a mole changes size, form, or color.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC):
- Firm and Painless Lump: Usually red or purple, expands swiftly.
- The swelling or expansion of surrounding lymph nodes.
Kaposi sarcoma:
Purple, red, and brown lesions are painless, flat, or elevated patches that might bleed.
Recognizing Dangerous Scalp Lesions
Suggested techniques to check for early indications of malignant moles, such as:
- Asymmetry: refers to two sides of the same mole that do not match.
- Border irregularity: The moles’ margins seem ragged, serrated, or fuzzy.
- Color: The mole is diverse tints that change from one location to the next.
- Size: The mole measures more than 6 millimeters in diameter.
- Evolving: The mole or skin lesion differs from others on the skin and seems to be changing size, shape, or color.
Read Also: Symptoms of Diaphragm Cancer
Advanced Symptoms of Scalp Skin Cancer
Advanced signs of skin cancer on the scalp may include:
- Changes in Skin Lesions: Growths that alter size, form, or color, such as elevated lumps or flat, scaly patches.
- Ulcers or Open Sores: Non-healing sores that bleed and crust over.
- Pain or Tenderness: Discomfort in the afflicted region.
- Itching or Burning: sensations near the lesion.
- Bleeding or Crusting: Prolonged bleeding or scabbing.
- Lymph Node Swelling: Large, painful lymph nodes may suggest spread.
- Hair Loss: Unexplained hair loss surrounding the lesion.
- Color or texture changes: include darkening, roughness, or a wart-like texture.
- Systemic symptoms: include fatigue, weight loss, and headaches (in rare situations).
Reference
D’Souza, G. (2022, May 31). What to know about skin cancer on the scalp. Retrieved January 4, 2025, from Medicalnewstoday.com website: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/skin-cancer-on-scalp#diagnosis
Melanoma: Stages, types, causes, and pictures. (2019, November 7). Retrieved from www.medicalnewstoday.com website: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/154322#what-is-melanoma
Skin Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. (2020, January 24). Retrieved from National Cancer Institute website: https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/patient/skin-treatment-pdq#_1
Types | Skin cancer | Cancer Research UK. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.cancerresearchuk.org website: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/skin-cancer/types
