A skin lesion refers to any abnormal change in the structure or color of the skin. Lesions may be congenital or develop at any stage of life. While some are harmless, others may indicate serious health conditions such as skin cancer. Therefore, all skin lesions should be examined carefully and, if necessary, evaluated by a dermatologist.
Types of Skin Lesions
Skin lesions are generally classified as primary (initially formed) and secondary (developed over time):
| Lesion Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Macule | Flat discoloration on the skin surface (e.g., freckles) |
| Papule | Small, firm, raised lesion (e.g., wart) |
| Plaque | Broad, flat, raised lesion (e.g., psoriasis) |
| Nodule | Firm mass under the skin |
| Vesicle | Small fluid-filled blisters |
| Pustule | Pus-filled blister (e.g., acne) |
| Ulcer | Deep tissue loss |
| Crust | Surface lesion formed from dried blood, pus, or serum |
| Lichenification | Thickening and roughening of the skin (develops after chronic scratching) |
Commonly Seen Other Skin Lesions
1. Seborrheic Keratosis
Brown to black, raised, waxy lesions usually associated with aging.
They are benign but often removed for cosmetic reasons.
2. Actinic Keratosis
Scaly and crusty lesions that develop in sun-exposed areas.
They have the potential to become cancerous.
3. Dermatofibroma
Firm nodules that develop under the skin.
Usually harmless, but growing or painful ones should be monitored.
4. Xanthelasma
Yellowish, flat lesions around the eyes.
May be linked to cholesterol metabolism disorders.
5. Molluscum Contagiosum
Viral lesions with a central dimple, resembling pearls.
They are contagious and common in children.
6. Keratoacanthoma
Rapidly growing but usually benign lesion considered suspicious.
Surgical removal is recommended due to its similarity to skin cancer.
Symptoms of Skin Lesions
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Color change | Lesion appears darker, lighter, or redder than the surrounding skin |
| Growth tendency | Increase in diameter or thickness over time |
| Itching or pain | Caused by inflammation or pressure on nerve endings |
| Surface changes | Bleeding, crusting, or ulceration |
| Redness in nearby skin | May indicate infection or irritation |
How Are Skin Lesions Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a dermatological examination. In suspicious cases, the following methods are used:
- Dermoscopy: The lesion is examined in detail using a magnifying tool.
- Biopsy: A sample of the lesion is taken and analyzed pathologically.
- Digital dermoscopic monitoring: Used to track growth and changes in mole-like lesions over time.
Treatment Methods
Treatment varies depending on the type, location, size, and cosmetic impact of the lesion:
1. Surgical Excision
Complete removal of the lesion.
Provides tissue for pathological examination.
2. Cryotherapy (Freezing)
Lesion is destroyed using liquid nitrogen.
Especially suitable for superficial lesions.
3. Laser Treatment
Used for cosmetically disturbing lesions.
Minimizes scarring.
4. Electrocauterization
Lesion is burned using electric current.
Effective for small, benign lesions.
5. Topical Treatments
Used mainly for viral or inflammatory lesions.
Advantages of Removing Skin Lesions
| Advantage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Cancer prevention | Suspicious lesions can be removed and analyzed for early diagnosis |
| Improved aesthetic appearance | Especially beneficial for lesions on the face or visible areas |
| Prevention of complications | Prevents issues such as itching, bleeding, and infection |
| Increased comfort | Enlarged or irritated lesions can affect quality of life |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can skin lesions turn into cancer?
Yes. Certain lesions, especially actinic keratoses or atypical moles, carry a risk of developing into cancer over time. Therefore, regular dermatological follow-up is essential.
Will removing a lesion leave a scar?
Depending on the treatment method and the location of the lesion, scarring is possible but usually minimal. Laser or aesthetic surgical techniques help reduce this risk.
Should every lesion be removed?
No. Benign, small, and asymptomatic lesions may only require monitoring. However, suspicious lesions should be removed and examined.
Can lesions come back after removal?
Yes. Some benign lesions may recur due to genetic or hormonal factors. Incomplete removal may also lead to recurrence.
Every skin lesion should be carefully evaluated. A skin abnormality that appears harmless may sometimes be a sign of a serious condition. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, health problems can be prevented, and a more comfortable aesthetic life can be maintained. If any changes are noticed on your skin, consult a dermatologist without delay.
All content on this site is for informational purposes only and is based on scientific sources valid as of the publication date. For any symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment related to health, please consult your physician or a licensed healthcare provider directly.