Skin Cancer

[Shaky46]

I have red hair, and always am careful about sun exposure. Recently I have noticed several patches of dry, flaky skin on my lower arms and both hands that sometimes also itch. For personal reasons I am reluctant to go to my GP at present. Is there anywhere on HU showing pictures and descriptions of the various types of skin cancer ?

[Bevvy]

It would be extremely irresponsible to look on either HU or Google to diagnose a condition by pictures alone. Skin cancer is a serious condition that should not be underestimated. Your rash probably isn’t anything serious and could be treated by cream. In fact in its early stages skin cancer can be treated by creams.I strongly urge you to visit your gp. I can’t believe there is no doctor at your surgery you won’t see and if so then you should seriously think about changing surgeries. If you really won’t see gp then speak to your pharmacist who may be able to advise.

[Batty1]

So many things can cause dry itchy patches of skin …. psoriasis, eczema 2 big ones.

[katieoxo60]

Having had a skin cancer removed many years ago in the eighties, I feel a sixth sense often tells you if you need a GP to refer you, mine was dealt with in four weeks, with follow up for two years and to date no further recurrance. As said lots of things like psoriasis & excema if not too vast can soon be controlled by creams often from health shops,chemists ect.

[rosewine]

Do get your patches checked out. I have a fair Celtic skin and despite taking what I thought were adequate precautions had first a rodent ulcer which was removed and this time a red, sore itchy patch on my face. I initially ignored it but then it started to fester and I was referred to a lovely specialist. I had to put chemo cream on and initially it looked much worse (she has warned me it would) but now I just have a flat red patch which hopefully will slowly fade, Now it is permanent factor 50 and a wide brimmed hat instead of a cap but better than the alternative.

It is better to have it checked and to be told it js a reaction to something than leave it and regret it. The doctors would rather you have it checked.

[Shaky46 in reply to rosewine]

Good evening Rosewine. I will definitely take your advice as my patches appear to br the same as you have described about yours.

[rosewine in reply to Shaky46]

Let us know how you get on. Good luck.x

[moodybo]

Few days late, but if you haven't then please get it checked out.

The process by why they check skin complaints isn't that invasive from my experience (in the UK). I have a small lesion on the back of one arm and because it's on the surface, they were able to look at it with a hand-held microscope thing. The biopsy they took from another was easy and quick too - just felt like a small graze for a few days.

[Shaky46 in reply to moodybo]

Thank you for the advice. I will get it checked out.