“What’s That Spot?”- Common Skin Concerns Explained by Catherine Luz, DCNP, FNP-C
As a Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner, one of the most common questions I hear is, “What’s that spot?” It’s a great question—and one that highlights how important it is to understand the different kinds of skin growths. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common ones, how I evaluate them, and when it’s a good idea to get them checked out.
Moles (Nevi): These are clusters of pigmented cells that can appear anywhere on the skin. Many moles are benign, but vigilance is key. The ABCDE rule helps us to educate patients on changes to look out for in their skin, standing for: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolution over time. If a mole exhibits any of these characteristics, it's advisable to consult a dermatologist.
Skin Tags: Known medically as acrochordons, skin tags are small, soft, flesh-colored growths that often develop in areas where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. Skin tags are harmless and usually don’t cause any pain. However, if one starts to grow, change color, hurt, or begin to bleed, it’s a good idea to have it checked out.
Cysts: These are closed pockets of tissue that can be filled with fluid or other material. Epidermoid cysts, for example, are common and usually benign. They often appear as small, round bumps under the skin. While many cysts are harmless, if one becomes red, swollen, or painful, it’s important to seek out treatment.
Other Common Growths: Conditions like seborrheic keratoses (waxy, wart-like growths), cherry angiomas (small red bumps or dots), and lipomas (soft, fatty lumps under the skin) are generally benign. However, any new growth or change in existing skin lesions warrants attention.
When to Seek Professional Evaluation: It's crucial to monitor your skin for any new growths or changes in existing ones. If a spot evolves in size, shape, or color, or if it becomes symptomatic (itchy, bleeding, or painful), consult a healthcare provider. Early detection and diagnosis are key to your prognosis and effective treatment, especially for common skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Regular self-examinations and skin checks with a dermatologist can help maintain skin health and catch potential issues early.
Stay proactive about your skin health. If you notice any concerning changes, call our office to schedule an appointment. We are currently welcoming new general dermatology patients, with appointments available in less than a month! Request an Appointment Here.