Cancer symptom can sometimes look like common skin condition 1 in 10 adults have

People are being warned that a red-flag sign of cancer can often be mistaken for a common skin condition many people in UK have

Individuals are being cautioned that a significant warning sign of cancer can be confused with a common skin issue. Eczema, impacting 1.5 million adults in the UK, shares similar symptoms with skin cancer.

It's always good to check with your doctor for the best advice. In the UK, approximately 10% of people are affected by eczema, with atopic eczema impacting one in five children and one in ten adults.

Eczema is a skin condition that isn't contagious and is marked by inflammation. It can impact people of all ages, from babies to seniors. This condition can greatly influence one's quality of life and may also lead to mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression.

It occurs when the immune system overreacts, resulting in inflammation beneath the skin. Common signs include red, dry, and itchy skin, which can be provoked by stress or food sensitivities.

Certain forms of skin cancer, particularly basal cell and squamous cell cancers, can sometimes be confused with eczema. These cancers may present as red, scaly patches resembling a rash, leading to potential misidentification, such as eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis, reports Surrey Live.

It's important to understand that skin cancer can appear in different forms based on its type, making it vital to be aware of the various types. Other skin conditions that can look like eczema include:

• Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: Initially, it may present as dry, flaky skin or have a scaly appearance similar to psoriasis. It can also show up as blisters on the surface of the skin.
• Actinic cheilitis: A precancerous condition that usually appears on the lower lips as scaly patches or persistent roughness.

Here are some of the symptoms of skin cancer that can appear similar to eczema symptoms:

• Actinic keratosis: Scaly or crusty skin lesions can be a possible symptom.
• Basal cell carcinoma: Itchy, painful, or bleeding patches can be a potential symptom.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: Scaly red or dark red patches can be a possible symptom.

While eczema and skin cancer can exhibit some similar symptoms, they also have key differences. Eczema lesions often emerge in multiple body parts at once and can be extensive.

These patches may form in regions less exposed to sunlight, like the armpits and groin. On the other hand, skin cancer usually develops in a specific area rather than appearing in multiple spots simultaneously.

It is more frequently found on skin that gets regular sun exposure. Another important difference is that eczema is commonly seen in younger individuals, often appearing before age six. In contrast, skin cancer typically affects adults, with the risk increasing as you age.

To help you screen for skin cancer, you can:

• Examine your skin regularly, ideally monthly.
• Look for anything different or suspicious.
• Contact your care provider right away if you notice anything new or changing.
• Note symptoms, duration, severity, and exacerbating/alleviating factors.
• Take clear photos of skin symptoms.
• Prepare a list of questions about symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention.

Other conditions that can cause a rash include:

• Leukemia: A blood cancer that can cause tiny red spots to form on the skin's surface.
• Mycosis fungoides: A type of cutaneous T cell lymphoma that causes itchy, rash-like skin patches.
• Sézary syndrome: A leukemic variant of mycosis fungoides that causes an extensive, itchy red rash over at least 80% of the body.
• Kaposi sarcoma: A type of cancer that can cause deep red, purple, or brown lesions to form on the skin's surface

If you've noticed any strange lumps, bumps, or patches on your skin, it could be wise to contact your doctor to discuss your concerns. Additionally, if you have a persistent skin rash of any kind, it's best to see a doctor, even if you believe you know the cause.