What Causes A Raised, Pink And Crusty Lump On Forearm?
I am looking for a 2nd. opinion on this matter. It has been discussed before but I would like to know perhaps what another Dr. might have to say.
I am a 67 year old male in generally good health who never venture into the Sun.
About 8-9 months ago I developed a lump on my forearm that is raised pink, irregular border and has a crusty surface. I thought perhaps it was caused by me picking at a wound or scab I may have had as I pick at most things.
It does not hurt, ooze or bleed and seldom it may itch a tiny bit but I leave it alone.
Size has not gotten any bigger in 8-9 months since I noticed it.
I read WAY too much on the NET but from all that I have read or have seen pics of it looks to me like Basel Cell.
I have not been to see a Dr. as funds are pretty tight right now at the Hoiday time.
Can a Dr. please look at the pic I am trying to attach from my Face book as I dont see any other way to attach a picture.
Thanks in advance.
http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee212/kelso47/opinion_zps0000.jpg
To confirm diagnosis , skin biopsy is necessary.
Detailed Answer:
Welcome to H.C.M. .
I had gone through your question and understand your concerns.
After seeing your pic and correlating with your history , it is looking in favor of
Basal Cell carcinoma but skin biopsy is must for confirmation.
Things going in favor of Basal Cell Carcinoma are-
1) Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer.
2) This type of skin cancer grows slowly. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
3)Pink or red, slightly scaly patch, especially when appears on the forearm
with irregular borders.
You should consult a Dermatologist .
The only way to diagnose basal cell carcinoma (BCC), is with a skin biopsy.
Your dermatologist can perform this procedure during an office visit.
This biopsy will confirm the diagnosis.
Remember this thing that basal cell cancer can be cured, especially when the cancer is found early and treated.
Hope this answers your question.
If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us.
I will be happy to answer your questions.
Thanx.
Dr Krishna Dubey.
With out trying to put words into your mouth it doesnt appear to be either Squamas or Melanoma does it?
No, it is not looking like Squamas or Melanoma.
Detailed Answer:
Thanks for waiting my answer.
Skin biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis. This is not so costly; a short duration procedure in which minor skin with tissue will be taken under local anesthesia.
It will remove all your doubts. And yes, clinically it doesn't look like a squamous cell tumour or melanoma.
Thanks
As a follow up I would like to ask.
From my understanding Squamous cell is generally round looking with no irregular borders such as the one I pictured before..........is that correct? Also it is my understanding (again from what I have read) Squamous can but rarely will spread to other areas such as lymph nodes........is this also correct?
Lastly I understand that Melanoma is almost always a dark brown or black...... is that also true?
Thanks in advance.
Answered to your queries
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for follow up.
1) I observed your picture and after going through your picture, I will suggest you biopsy for confirmation.
The classic presentation of Squamous cell carcinomas is that of a shallow ulcer with heaped-up edges, often covered by a plaque.
2) You are correct that Squamous can but rarely will spread to other areas such as lymph nodes.
Squamous cell carcinoma rarely spreads, but does so more often than basal cell carcinoma.
Squamous cell carcinoma first grows slowly and painlessly but later it may start growing rapidly and destructively.
3) The majority of melanomas look black or brown in color, but they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white.
Again same thing that biopsy is must for confirmation and for further management of your skin lesion.
Hope this answers your question.
If you have any query I will be happy to answer your questions.
http://doctor.healthcaremagic.com/doctors/dr-krishna-dubey/67560
Thank you