Stricken by Sunburn: Ever Heard of Skin Cancer on the Nose?

Skin cancer is commonly a result of sunlight exposure. Nearly three-fourths of cases diagnosed each year are caused by this factor. Sometimes it occurs because of frequent exposure, or it may result from a single bad sunburn. Those who experience a bad sunburn may worry about getting skin cancer on the nose.

How is it possible to tell whether the blemish on your nose is skin cancer? Skin cancer lesions differ from other sores or pimples in three primary ways. If, however, you even suspect the possibility of skin cancer, it is important to visit a physician as soon as possible. A certain diagnosis can only be made by surgical biopsy.

Basal skin cancer lesions are different from other sores in that they do not heal. They frequently appear, drain bloody or yellowish fluid, scab over, and then begin to drain again. They primarily appear on areas of the skin that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, neck, and upper back.

Squamous cancer tumors may look similar to basal carcinomas. Alternatively, they may be rough, scaly patches of skin that do not go away. If a sore does not disappear after a reasonable period, a physician who can help to determine whether the sore might actually be cancerous skin should evaluate it.

Both basal cell and squamous cell cancers are frequently found in areas exposed to sunlight. Because the skin on the surface of the nose is tender and receives frequent exposure to sunlight, this area of the skin is at greatest risk for developing one of these types of skin cancer. These cancers are very treatable with surgical removal.

Although the face and nose are primarily sites for nonmelanoma cancers, malignant melanomas can also develop on the face in some instances. This form of skin cancer is very deadly once it has spread beyond the primary site. Distinguishing between a melanoma and nonmelanoma can be very difficult, and so it is extremely important to seek early treatment if any kind of skin cancer is suspected.

One of the best methods to prevent skin cancer caused by sunlight exposure is with sunscreens. Agents that provide a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 are recommended for persons with fair skin. Small children should also be protected with a sunscreen offering an SPF of at least 30.

If you think you have skin cancer on the nose, see a doctor immediately to have it evaluated. Skin cancer is nearly 100 percent curable if detected in the very early stages, before it has spread beyond the primary site. Your life may depend on prompt evaluation and treatment of the sore on your nose.