There are several factors that may lead to the development of skin growth. But most notable contributors include genetics, exposure to the sun, infections etc.
Not all skin growths signal alarm; however, there are instances where you may want to find a skin doctor in Singapore for proper evaluation. This is important as some growths for example unusual lesions or moles may be indicative of potential risks like skin cancer.
A board-certified skin doctor in Singapore can help you differentiate between harmless growths and those that need attention. With timely assessment, you can be very hopeful for early detection and treatment of any concerning issues.
On this page, we will take you through the specific instances to see your skin doctor in Singapore for growth. We will also give an overview on what you can expect during a skin assessment. Keep reading!
When Should I go to the Doctor for Skin Growth?
Skin growths are mostly associated with skin cancer so it is very understandable if you have some and are worried about them. If you’re wondering whether it is time to see your skin doctor in Singapore for skin growth, here are a few scenarios you may want to consider;
● Sudden or Rapid Growth
Not every case of skin growth is a cause for concern. However, it isn’t wise to assume a sudden surge in skin growth.
So, schedule an appointment with your skin doctor in Singapore if you notice a sudden or rapid increase in the size of skin growth. Rapid changes might signal malignancy. This is why it is essential that you report the changes as soon as possible for immediate assessment.
● Change in Color or Shape
It isn’t natural for skin growth to change in color or shape. That said, any alteration in the color, shape, or texture of a skin growth warrants the attention of a skilled skin doctor.
For example, if you have a mole that starts to become asymmetrical, changes color, develops irregular borders or starts itching, bleeding, or growing rapidly, it’s vital to get it examined. These alterations may indicate skin cancer or other skin conditions that can be concerning.
● Pain or Discomfort
Skin growths usually don’t come with pain. So, if you have an existing growth or develop skin growth that causes pain, discomfort, or irritation it is best to notify your skin doctor in Singapore for evaluation.
This is important as painful growths might suggest an underlying infection. They may also be due to inflammation, or a nerve-related issue that may need to be looked at. Discomfort or tenderness could indicate an issue that requires professional assessment and treatment.
● Bleeding or Ulceration
It isn’t also a good idea to ignore skin growth that bleeds. If you have an existing skin growth or develop a skin growth that starts bleeding without any apparent cause or forms an ulcer, it’s a sign to see your skin doctor in Singapore as soon as possible.
Bleeding or ulceration in a growth could indicate trauma. It may also be suggestive of infection, or malignancy. Timely medical attention will be needed to determine the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
● Rapid Growth in Children
Children have an immune system not as fully developed as that of adults. So, if you notice a rapidly growing skin growth on your child’s skin, it is enough reason to visit a pediatric skin doctor.
Timely assessment is important here as children are known to develop various skin conditions like hemangiomas or warts that often require treatment. Depending on the assessment results, you may need to keep a close eye on the growths on your baby’s skin to ensure proper management.
● Family History of Skin Cancer
To begin with, if you have one or more biological relatives who have had melanoma, you have a higher risk of getting melanoma. Biological elatives in this case include brothers, parents, sisters or even children.
With that in mind, it is advisable to be vigilant about new or changing skin growths if you have a family history of skin cancer. This is important as genetic disposition increases your risks of also having the cancer.
Skin cancer is best managed when detected early. So, do not ignore any suspicious growths if you have a family history of the condition.
What to Expect During Your Skin Assessment for Skin Growths?
Being recommended a skin exam due to suspicious skin growths can sound a little scary but there isn’t really anything to worry about as the assessment is pain-free. What’s more, if the assessment reveals that you could have a worrisome skin condition, you will have a good chance of getting the best treatment outcomes if the condition is caught earlier. Here’s a quick roundup of what to expect during a skin assessment for growths on your skin;
Your skin doctor will systematically examine your skin’s surface with a keen focus on areas that are exposed to the sun to detect any signs of skin cancer. This assessment is crucial because around 85% of non-melanoma skin cancers form on sun-exposed skin.
To evaluate moles or irregular skin areas, your skin doctor in Singapore may use methods like the ABCDE rule and the 7-point checklist. The ABCDE rule helps in distinguishing between a normal mole and potential skin cancer. This differentiation is based on asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter larger than 6mm, and any evolving changes in size, shape, or sensation of the mole. The 7-point checklist helps identify skin cancer by assessing specific features of the growth or colored skin area. In particular, the doctor will be looking for major features like changes in size, irregular color, and shape which cay the highest point values. Minor features like diameter exceeding 7mm, alterations in sensation, oozing, inflammation, or bleeding contribute to lesser points. Accumulating 3 or more points may prompt referral to a specialist or further testing.
During the assessment, if any abnormality is detected, the skin doctor will determine the necessity for additional tests. For example, a skin biopsy may be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer.
The Bottom Line
Skin growths aren’t really a cause for concern unless they behave in certain ways that are worrisome. If you have growths that are worrying you, see to it that you are assessed by an experienced skin doctor in Singapore and that you’re put on a personalized treatment plan.
We understand the concerns that tend to come with changes in our bodies. That’s why we do not only provide thorough assessment but also education to those who report changes like growths on their skin, etc. To learn more about skin assessments in Singapore or schedule an appointment with a specialist for a thorough assessment, call or visit us at;
The Dermatology Clinic – Dr. Uma Alagappan | Adult and Pediatric Skin Specialist
