Understanding Skin Growths
Skin growths can be tricky to treat on your own, particularly because it is difficult to differentiate between various types of growths without professional education and experience. Many of these growths are common and can be easily identified during a routine exam at Coastal Dermatology. Dr. Goyal will evaluate your skin growths and recommend treatment options if they are unsightly or cause symptoms. He will be particularly watchful for signs of precancerous growths and skin cancer.
Types
Moles
Moles are among the most common growths found on the body. They occur when pigment cells in the skin (melanocytes) grow in clusters. An average adult tends to have between 10 and 40 moles scattered on their skin. Most are harmless, but if there is an increase in mole frequency or a mole changes in shape, color or texture, this could be an indication of cancerous growth.
The American Academy of Dermatology has created the “ABCDE” guide as any easy way to identify five common signs of a cancerous growth: asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolving.
Read more about cancerous skin growth detection here
Seborrheic Keratosis
Frequently mistaken for warts, these growths are benign and appear as small brown or black blemishes. They are most common on the shoulders, chest, face or back. Seborrheic keratosis lesions are often recognized by their waxy or scaly surface and “stuck-on” appearance. Risk factors include older age, family history and excessive sun exposure. Many people will develop seborrheic keratosis at some point in their life.
A seborrheic keratosis may not require treatment. If desired, a dermatologist can remove the growth via cryosurgery, electrocautery or curettage.
Warts & Molluscum
While aesthetically frustrating, warts tend to be harmless growths caused by different forms of the human papillomavirus (HPV). The HPV virus triggers extra cell growth, which turns the outer layer of skin thick and hard in a localized spot. Warts can grow anywhere on the skin, but are most likely to appear on the hands or feet. They are highly contagious between people and between different areas of the body.
Luckily, warts are noncancerous and can disappear on their own in some cases. Those that do not can be treated with cryotherapy, electrosurgery, laser surgery, salicylic acid preparation or nonprescription freezing products.
Are You Interested In Dermatological Services To Help Your Skin?
If you are dealing with an obtrusive skin growth, give our office a call and schedule an appointment with Coastal Dermatology & Medspa as soon as possible. Contact or call us today in Jacksonville, Florida, at 904-727-9123 or nearby Ponte Vedra Beach at 904-567-1050 to request a consultation. The staff at Coastal Dermatology & Medspa are excited to work with you to address your concerns and help you achieve your skin goals.