Failure to diagnose skin cancer can be disastrous

As Texas moves from spring into summer, many people will be anticipating hot weather and lots of sunshine. Many people are more exposed to the sun in the summer months, and skin cancer is always a concern for those with any exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Early diagnosis of cancer, including skin cancer, can be key to successfully fighting the disease. This blog post will provide a quick review of some of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer.

The most common sign of skin cancer is a change in the skin, such as a sore that doesn’t heal, a new growth or a change in a mole. Experts suggest that remembering the A-B-C-D-Es of melanoma is a good way to remember some of the signs and symptoms. The initials refer to: asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolution. If the spot on the skin is asymmetrical, if the border of the spot is jagged or irregular, if the color of the spot is uneven, if the diameter of the spot is greater than that of a pea or if you notice the spot evolving, changing over the course of a few weeks or months, you should have a doctor look at the spot right away.

Only a doctor can diagnose skin cancer. But what if there is a failure to diagnose skin cancer by the doctor? This could result in a worsened medical condition, additional time and expense in fighting the cancer or worse.

If you have been the victim of serious medical mistakes, you have options for pursuing a legal remedy for the resulting expense, trouble and pain. Medical malpractice attorneys can provide more information.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “What Are the Symptoms of Skin Cancer?” accessed on April 3, 2016