I'm almost 70. My dad died of melanoma in 1971 at the age of 39. He had a mole on the bottom of his foot which my mom discovered while we were at the beach. He was operated on at Sloan Kettering in NY and 6 months later passed away. The cancer had spread everywhere including to his brain. There was no SPF or regular skin checks then so we've come a long way. I never miss an annual check up, but I also recommend checking yourself periodically - including toes and feet, and having a friend/spouse/partner look at your back and nape of neck.
I'm so sorry for your Dad. I want to share my story. At age 35 (1 year after having my daughter) a friend noticed a dark black small mole on the bottom of my foot and insisted I see someone, which I did the next day. They biopsied it and I was in surgery within a week. Stage 3+ malignant melanoma 😮 recovery was tough since the bottom of the foot takes a long time. thanks to Mayo clinic for saving my life. I'm now in my 60's and have had checks EVERY year.
The timing of this video is so ironic. A friend texted me last night about having to get some spots removed, and now your video pops up. Okay, I am convinced to go get my own spots checked just in case. Thank you! 👍🏼
Please don’t think this is an “old person” thing. Ive so far had 4 melanomas at age 12, 16, 18 and again at 27 and 2 BCCs as well. I’m now 41 and getting another 3 moles cut off soon. Wear sunscreen EVERY DAY and keep an eye on your skin.
Are you a redhead? 👩🏻🦰I am and now that I’ve had a couple children and I’m at the end of my 20’s I’m noticing more and more moles that look odd. Getting them checked out soon.
It’s not an older person cancer! When I was around 10 years old my maternal grandmother remarried and the man she married had a 17 year old granddaughter and they were going to vacation in Florida so went shopping for flip flops and the 17 year old told her mom she could not wear flip flops because she had a mole between her toes and it would hurt so going forward it was Melanoma and she didn’t live very long after the diagnosis, I’m 60 now and I’ve shared this heartbreaking real life story to many especially moms and dads who are taking care of children! God bless you and check your skin!❤🙏❤🙏
I'm so glad this is being discussed. My moms primary doctor misdiagnosed her squamous cell skin cancer. She ended up finding out after it had moved inside her body. She went through so much before she passed on. 😔
Hey first comment. Also I’ve had basal cell and my husband has squamous. We see dermatologists regularly and have them take care of. Really good explanation! Oh we’re 80 and we live in Florida
Derm told my husband ( who only went in to see doc because I forced him) …” that’s nothing! I have been doing this 25 years, that’s nothing.” My very wise husband said, I can’t go home with this still on me, my wife will kill me!” So he reluctantly cut it off while murmuring how rediculous this was. Got a call four days later it was cancer! Same doctor called to say we need to come in and get a larger area removed. I said “ Oh we will! But not at your office!!” EGO VS PATIENT CARE!!!
I took my husband to a dermatologist for a spot l thought was cancer. She said she didn’t think it was, but she took the spot off and it was squamous cell. On his next visit she admitted l was right.
Very timely. I was just diagnosed with melanoma. It was caught early. I’m scheduled for a wide excision in the next 2 weeks. It’s so important to have your total body checked regularly, avoid excessive sun exposure, and wear sunscreen. Thank you so much for your expert videos. They are so helpful.
I was 30 and had what two doctors said was a blood blister on the top of my foot. I finally found a doctor to biopsy and it was melanoma. I had lymph nodes removed, hadn't spread, thank the Lord. 9 years later same foot, right above first one, melanoma again. We did catch it quicker so less of my skin removed. Now I am 53 AND SO FAR SO GOOD!
Sending you so many prayers . I'm going to get checked tomorrow I have a mole on my back that looks like it's bleeding from the inside and I have another mole that I've had for probably a year now that really looks like it. I'm really scared. I've also had swelling in my feet and I'm exhausted all the time. I pray it's nothing. I hope you are ok. Sorry if I over shared.
Thank you for making this video! I’ve had every type of skin cancer mentioned in this video. It is so very important to go get a abnormal looking mole, or red spot checked out. I had 2 big red spots on the left side of nose that had been there for years. I thought that the area was being rubbed raw by my sunglasses. Turned out I had 2 deep Basel cell carcinoma’s that required Moh’s surgery. The surgeon had to remove 6 layers on one spot, and 3 layers on the other spot. I needed reconstructive surgery because he couldn’t close the wounds!!! I see my Dermatologist every 6 months now for a check of my skin. So thank you for this information !!
I just had mohs surgery on my nose and he couldn't close the wound. It's been 5 weeks and it's slowly healing. I didn't know it was common to leave open!
My wounds could not be left open because they were way too big. One of the wounds was the size of a dime. My surgeon put some play dough stuff that is used for surgery to cover the wound so it wouldn’t get infected. Then, the next day, at his surgery center, he did a “ flap “ instead of a skin graph. The flap reconstruction is when the patient grows their own skin graph. It’s hard to explain without making this comment any longer! If your interested, look up flap reconstruction surgery. I hope that your wound heals quickly 💕
Basel's can come back - one on my head was removed twice ( primary Dr) and it came back, a Dermatologist then did Moh's (2 times ) yep, I have a hole in my scalp, but Looks like it's finally gone now.
Age 60, reddish hair and freckles. Noticed 2 white pimples that itched on my hair part. Showed to several doctors, was given creams. Pimple patch continued to grow and itch. Again showed dermatologist and internist. Given creams. 2 months later my entire neck blew up like a tire. My doctor cried when she saw me, ordered biopsy. Report came back stating only “STAGE 4 Metastatic Melanoma “. Don’t know how I could have played it differently…… when my doctors didn’t know. Thank GOD for YERVOY/OPDIVO Immunotherapy. Cancer free in 4 months. They still say I was a miracle 🙏
I'm 54, fair skin, FL born native. I'm 1 week post MOHs surgery for squamous cell carcinoma on my hand. What they took is maybe a little bigger than a quarter. I've seen the dermatologist every 6 months for years & am good with sunscreen, but don't always remember my hands (driving). Last couple of yrs I've kept sunscreen in my car/purse so I can't forget to use it. Thank you for this post, much appreciated!
Can’t wait to see the MOHS video. I am a CMA at a derm clinic in Oregon and I assist with MOHS. It’s my favorite part of my job. I appreciate that you mentioned that not all melanoma are dark in color. We have seen those in clinic and people don’t tent to realize that.
I was at my doctor for a checkup and mentioned that a mole on my back was itchy. He took a look at it and I could tell by the look on his face that something was wrong. He made me an appointment with a dermatologist for the next day. Three days later I had surgery to remove my melanoma. Don't be afraid to tell your doctor when something doesn't feel right.
I was the one that told my sister to get a spot checked out, turned out it was melanoma. She had to have surgery to get it removed. Thankfully our cousin is a dermatologist with her own practice. I said she should send her chart over to get a 2nd opinion being she is out of state. She called my sister's doctor and had him go back in a second time and go deeper. To be sure it wouldn't have a chance to come back. Listen to your family when they tell you something doesn't look right!! My family is all skin, blonde hair, blue eyes. Higher chance. And my sister used to tan in tanning beds as a teenager. It's a wake up call.
So helpful! A friend was diagnosed with a basil cell carcinoma on her upper lip. When they removed it, it left quite a cavernous hole and once healed, an ugly, disfiguring scar on her face. She was annoyed that they gauged out such a honking blob to remove what had been a tiny lump! More motivation to keep applying those SPFs, avoiding the sun and wearing UPF clothing.
My dad went to his dermatologist for a spot on his head. Dermatologist said it was nothing to worry about. Next day, he had an appointment with his PCP who scheduled him for a biopsy. Turned out it was Melanoma. He went through Immunotherapy and was doing really well. After that stopped, he was started on radiation and died 1.5 months later. Always get a second opinion!!
Holy Crap! I have a spot on my chest that is red and itches just like what Dr. Shah experienced. I'm definitely going to set up an appointment asap with my dermatologist to get it checked out. Thanks for bringing this to the forefront and when we should get things checked out.
I got into the dermatologist the same day that I watched the video and turns out it was a precancerous spot. The Dr. froze it right off and said that I should be good, but if that spot comes back by Easter then I need to come in and they'll take a different look. Thanks for putting out these videos! @@Doctorly
@@frosty2857try Ultraviolette SPF50 ! Its made in Australia as we are the skin cancer capital of the world. You can buy it in USA tho, check where. Highly recommend… no grease, no white residue . Great product ! Yep Ive had malignant melanoma with skin flap surgery on my chest- teenage damage that I kept repeating for that sun tan. No knowledge back then …now I freak out about our weather and every spot I have . Coming up to 5 yrs cancer free 🙏🏼
Thank you for another excellent video. You are saving lives. Regarding get it out quickly: I had to wait 3 months for an appointment with my dermatologist. Skin biopsy performed and basal cell dx. Then I had to wait 3 months to the day for a mohs procedure per their protocol. The scheduler said, don't worry it's not an aggressive cancer. They would not push the date up. I finally got it done on their timeline and had clear borders. Thank God.
Went in for post basal cell removal check and mentioned a unrelated area that was chronically itchy. Derm wasn’t too concerned. Looked like a routine freckle but biopsied anyway. Not in a sun exposed area. Path came back as metastatic melanoma. Large excision with lymph node removal and so far so good. Grandfather died of melanoma. Never be afraid to point out any areas of concern
Very helpful. My mother had skin cancer. And I’ve had precancerous areas removed. I’m pretty hyper vigilant probably because I’m fair and a redhead plus I’m a nurse. The areas were all dry patchy areas that were itchy, something that people wouldn’t probably suspect as precancerous. Your explanations were very clear and really helpful. I’ve sent the video to a few friends. Thx
I do not have any visible moles but I just scheduled a body check for a baseline. Great conversation and very balanced discussion of treatments. Wish more doctors were this informative.
Thank you so much for this video. It is so helpful. My husband was diagnosed with basel cell carcinoma on his face and his surgery is taking place next week.
Thank you for your very detailed, but non-Derm friendly explanations! I have been an MA in Derm for a year and this was presented in excellent form. I enjoy your other content, but so happy to see the reality of what we should be concerned about regarding our skin.
I am one of those people that had a rare amelanotic melanoma. Thankfully it was still in situ and surgery completely removed it. My dermatologist thought it was a basal cell, so we were both surprised when the path report came back.
My husband has had a kidney transplant since 1966. The first one was at UCLA in 1966 and the second at Cedars Sinai in 2003. He has had to take immunosuppressants for 58 years and boy does he support our local dermatologist for skin cancer removal and treatments. Thank you for this important video. He has lost half of one ear and some of his lip from aggressive squamous cell. I’m not trying to scare anyone because his story is a little different. But the message here is so important. It’s so much better to see your dermatologist early, rather than to wait. ❤
Celtic family so I am fair, freckles, blue eyes. At the beach during my youth though always had sun screen. Dad died melanona at age 72. Decided to have body check because a freckles on my upper arm grew wider and with a dual pigmented “shadow”. Also a mole changed from circle to figure eight shape. Ding ding ding! Derm doc too two biopsies and said figure 8 was nevis( birthmark ) and was fine. I insisted. She resisted. I insisted and quoted “ I will pay out of pocket for everything if this a matter of insurance coverage, and if it’s not an insurance issue, then I can easily have it biopsied elsewhere. Begrudgingly she did (she was pissed). Three days later I am having a rare melanoma removed that the Oncologist said would have killed me in less then 5 years. He also called it a birthmark and asked how did I know to have it biopsied? How many people do you know that have a mole that looks like Salvador Davi created it? 😂He cut a HUGE and deep hole in my leg that took 2 months to heal. ( I took photos to show friends). There were 3 biopsies and 3 DIFFERENT melanomas. Be your own advocate. Do not let anyone, no matter how many degrees they have and how intimidating their refusals are, to dismiss your concerns. 🦋
Im so glad you spoke up and demanded you get the biopsy!! So many people just trust the doc. People need to realize that doctors are fallible humans, just like us. They are wrong, A LOT. They make mistakes regularly, though not always life threatening, thats why they have malpractice insurance. Always stand up for yourself if you dont feel right about what is diagnosed/ignored/written off. If one doctor is not willing to listen, find another that will. We only get one body so we need to take care of it to the best of our ability and LISTEN to it.
Perfect timing for this to come on my feed. I’ve had AK on my scalp since 2023, that’s been frozen by my derm twice. This past Friday, my dermatologist did a biopsy. We shall see in 7-10 days what the lab says.
My 98yo mom was recently diagnosed with melanoma on the sole of one foot. We’re Black and I remembered my Black derm telling me a decade ago the common places for our skin cancer is palms of hands, soles of feet. The surgery wasn’t done because of the size of excision needed with a skin graft and expected slow to no healing due to location combined with her advanced age and already compromised mobility. Tough decision but we believe the right one.
"Your video is incredibly timely! I was just chatting with a friend about the necessity of getting spots checked, and then your video pops up! It's like fate! After watching, I'm not only motivated to schedule my own spot check but also to explore your product for added protection. Thank you for the reminder and valuable information! 👍🏼"
I am now 72 and am paying for my youthful love of sunbathing. I have had a MOHs procedure, dr. had to go down three layers. Since then I've had three excisions. I now have a body scan every six months to have any suspicious spots frozen. I have a bandage on my left forearm right from my last visit to the dermatologist.
Perfect timing on this video. I just had surgery to removal a spot suspicious for Melanoma. You both are excellent at explaining in a way the lay person can understand.
Thank you so much for sharing this! As a medical esthetician working with dermatology patients, I appreciate you guys and the simplistic and easy to understand way you explained everything, thank you! Wear sunscreen everyday, and get your skin checked if you encounter an abnormality. Our skin is the largest organ and so important to take care of ❤️❤️
Thank you for this video👍 I recently had my 2nd squamous removed from neck. Even though I knew it was aggressive and got a biopsy within a few weeks, the carcinoma grew deep and was near a nerve that branched toward the lymphnodes in my arm pit. I now have to do 30 days of radiation therapy even though margins were clear with mohs surgery. The doctor warned that cancers can "skip" down nerves and spread. Thank you again for the message.
PLEASE do a video about very dry mature skin (over 50). How to use / layer each product correctly like hyaluronic acids, what face creams are best, what ingredients to look for in creams, etc. Thank you!
I had a melanoma skin cancer taken off of my shin one year ago today. It wasnt what i thought it would be as it looked like a tan spot. Thankfully i went to my dermatologist and found it at stage zero. I have a beautiful scar from the surgery. Thankful it is out. I go every three months now 6 months. If you question anything!!! Go get it checked.
I’m 56 and just had a procedure done to remove Basel Cell Carcinoma. I now have a 2 in scar and bald spot on the top of my head, as well as a very large dent where they removed tissue down to my skull. It’s been a much bigger process than I ever thought it would be. PLEASE wear sunscreen and a hat!!! You will be so glad you did! 👍🏼😃
Thank you for this video. My sister died of melanoma that had metastasized to her brain. Curious thing is the original melanoma was not ever found. She was diagnosed in January 2014 and died May 2014. It was so fast...😢 I miss her so much. Get a skin check every year, please.
She may have had a mucosal melanoma on the INSIDE of her body. It is more aggressive than the cutaneous they are taking about here and often times metastasizes to the brain. The public needs more education on this “different” type of skin cancer. It is on the “wet” portions of the skin. This may be why you never knew where it started. It is a very sneaky cancer.
I am really sorry to hear this. my husband died from melanoma in 2018 under similar circumstances- he was only 48. He had severe headaches and MRI showed Mets in the brain as well as other places. The original melanoma was also never found despite extensive testing. We went to the best melanoma specialists in the West (UC Davis/Stanford/University of Arizona in Tucson/UCSF) for consults and second opinions. It was suggested more than once that there was a theory that his immune system cleared the original melanoma but cells still managed to metastasize through his lymph system and end up throughout his body. He battled 18 months before his body had enough. You are right to say get an annual skin cancer check- and get it from a dermatologist.
My mom’s melanoma was inside her eye, it was discovered after detaching her retina. Such few treatment options. In spite of removing her beautiful bright blue eye, it still metastasized to her liver and pancreas before it ultimately won the battle.
@@Love-ql7rd i did not know this existed, but it does somewhat explain some things my doctors haven't been able to. I had a melanoma 14 years ago on the back of my calf. They assured me that the sun was at fault. i had the wide excision and was lucky that i needed no further treatment, but they sent me for every test know to man in the following year(s). yearly eye exams, lung X-rays, Mamos, endoscopies, normal gyno stuff and last but not least, a colonoscopy. I promise you the sun has never shined there. no one could explain this to me. i think you just did.
Thank you so much for your video. I watched your video. I had a place on the top of my ear that kept healing and going away. Had I not seen your video I would have ignored it as it was healing. As it turns out (after showing my dermatologist and having it tested) it is a basil cell and I am having it treated. Even though it is the least serious type of skin cancer because of its location it may become an issue if untreated. You guys are my new heroes.
Thank you for addressing this. I had a flesh colored BB shaped bump where my earlobe meets my jaw. My GP and I were both surprised that it was stage 3 melanoma. I had radical lymphadenecomy and three treatments of biochemotherapy. It was an intense 6 months. It's been 10 years with no reoccurrence. I'm religious about avoiding the Sun and wearing sunscreen. The point I want to make is to back up your observation that we should have anything unusual checked. 🖤💖
As someone with thousands of moles (thanks mom and dad, not that I’ve been self-conscious about it my entire life or anything 😢), I truly appreciate this video. I go to my dermatologist regularly, and found some reassurance in something he told me recently. He said that most melanomas occur on skin that’s not regularly seen by the sun - lower arms, face, chest. Those are common places for the skin to build up tolerance. It’s more so the places where unexpected sunburns occur or improper UV coverage is given - a bad sunburn on your thighs, back, butt, or scalp, or via a tanning bed that sees skin that the sun usually doesn’t. Do you agree - Yes/no? I think we need to be careful/cautious always, but for whatever reason that made me a little less anxious. 😊
I’ve had 4 melanomas so far in they’ve all been in my chest and upper back and thigh. All mine were on skin that was exposed a lot. Never heard that before.
I’m 50 I have fair skin and have had several sun burns in my life I often don’t use sunscreen screen, I don’t often wear a top in summer. Never have I noticed any kind of skin cancer in over 50 years, so if it’s not happened then, I guess it won’t happen now or in future.
I've worked with Mohs surgeons for about 18 years. Thank you for saying bx isn't a/ the surgery ! The amount of pts who hope/ think its gone after bx is so common.
THANKS SO MUCH FOR THIS VERY INFORMATIVE VIDEO!! I'm 72 and had a very dark purple or black spot that was very small come up on my lower leg a few months ago. It didn't look like any other spots I had seen. Had an appointment already scheduled with my PCP, and am in between my annual checkups with dermatologist! Ask my primary care doctor to look at it and he said I should get in with dermatologist before my next scheduled appointment. This was on a light scar where I had had something insignificant removed decades ago! Dermatologist did a biopsy and last week I learned it is melanoma! Saw surgeon and he is going to remove a chunk out of my leg and plan to do a test on lymph nodes and remove effected ones in June. He drew a diagram of how he would do the margin around the biopsy and then the triangle looking ends in order to close it! It looked just like your diagram!! Appreciate the pictures and info on the other types of skin cancer!! We ALL need to check ourselves in between regular visits to our dermatologist!! God bless y'all for what you are doing to help people learn about this dangerous condition!! Thanks again!! ❤🤗🙏🙏
I have a small red spot on my face for over a year that isn’t growing, but it’s not clearing up . I have a derm appointment next week that I was thinking of canceling because the spot probably isn’t anything but an” old lady” spot, but after watching this video, I am definitely going to my appointment!
I had superficial squamous cell om my face, just in front and above my ear, this year. I also have Palmoplantar pustulosis ( a kind of psoriasis) and thought the scaly stuff under my hair was just psoriasis popping up somewhere else ( PPP is restricted to hands and feet) I was having my ear checked at my primary and she asked if I had a dermatologist. She referred me and off I went not thinking anything about it. Imagine my surprise when I got the results. Ended up having a mohs surgery and everything so far is all good. I go in for skin checks every 6 months just to make sure if anything else rears it's ugly head, it is caught early. I spent the majority of my 65 yrs at a beach or out in the sun in some form. I do have fair skin, light hair and blue eyes ( Swedish background) You may think it would never happen to you, but it can.
Such an important message and video. Thank you, Doctors! I was mis-diagnosed and treated for four (4) years by my Primary Care Physician and a Dermatologist (That was recommended by my Primary Doc at the time), specifically for an irritated spot on my chest. Long/Short, I now have and must see often, a dermatologist who specializes and treats skin disorders and skin cancer that I trust completely. It has been a long road since with surgeries/chemo treatments, but I am now in good hands and on the mend and want to stress how important it is to do your research and schedule with a Derm Doctor (If you do not live near Doctor Shah and/or Doctor Maxfield and cannot see one of them) that does biopsies and specializes and treats skin disorders/skin cancer.
I had 2 spots of stage 1 melanoma removed last year. I'm lucky we caught it, but I have some gnarly scars as a constant reminder now on my thigh and shoulder. Thanks for bringing more awareness to this.
Had my annual mole checkup just last week and had to have a biopsy on my shoulder. I’ve had quite of few biopsies but thankfully only 1 has been basal cell. Coming from a moly family, I have kept my annual checkup for years and hopefully keep them all in check. Unfortunately I don’t have anyone to help keep an eye on them so the annual check is so very important.
Thank you for making this! I have skin that makes all the moles and freckles. I heard the ugly duckling rule from a dermatologist in my 20’s and it is so helpful.
I had irritation on my ear. I asked my dermatologist to give it a look. He said it was fine. Seven months this later I asked him about it again. He said ok, you want me to biopsy it? I said yes. It was cancer.
Thank you for this! I have followed you both for years and been meticulous about sunscreen however I was recently diagnosed with malignant melanoma on my back :( Had a wide local excision and all margins came back clear but super nervous about future melanomas. Wondering about reoccurrence? Just so scary, thank you again
Excellent presentation. This video was one of the best that I have seen on You Tube. I am a health care professional and this was easy and informative to watch. I wish we had such well-presented lectures when I was in school.
Today i went to the doctor to have a mole checked out she called the dermatologist one time after one look at it so she wanted me to go today and there was no spot left untill thursday morning 8.30 i will stay positive ❤❤one love
I have to wonder if anyone has developed a "photo booth" that you could walk into - naked - and get photos of your entire body. Use the emerging AI field to see what's new or suspicious and help the Derm focus on specific spots.
They have, its called Niko or something like that, the Japanese word for cat, saw it on insta a couple of days ago. Its about £380 and they have one in London :)
Im dying from metastatic squamous cell carcinoma . Im slowly dying😢. It's a long story. But I had cancer spread after surgery to remove it from my vulvar area. It wasn't even stage one yet in 2017. It was found in my lymph nodes in July 2023. I didn't feel comfortable with the surgery to remove it this time because 2 surgeons declined to do it as it's complicated . One guy offered but for me it was to risky. I tried chemo... couldn't handle it. Did radiation and it didn't work. I just went to the er for pain in my right side and was told it's spread to my right lower lung. But man you have no idea how much this is slowly taking me down. I can barely walk . It messed with my hormones and sent me into full menopause. My hair is falling out from the radiation I did. My skin isn't the same . I have zero energy and lymphedema in my lower abdomen and both legs. It's torcher 🤦🏻♀️. I was told I have 6 months to 2 yrs. Cancer is not at all what I thought. So many people don't understand what it is like or what someone goes through. Im not trying to sound like lm feeling sorry for myself. . But I hope u learn something from this. Demand treatment after surgery should u get cancer. Because my original surgery they did nothing after wards. That's how this spread. Also If u r reading this ...I hope you are happy and healthy 😇! Live your best life while u r healthy. I would never believe u if you told me I'd be going out like this . I was doing great! Walking , eating good .. I looked good for my age ! Now everything is out of my control.
Sorry to hear that, I'm praying that the master healer regenerate your blood cells from the tiniest point, begin your healing now in the name of Jesus Christ 🙏💞
Remember to insist and use certified credited pathology. My husband had a few moles taken off his back because I was concerned about one of them… They were tested and sent to San Luis Obispo pathology before we had great pathology in Santa Barbara California the San Luis office has been closed down. His pathology came back negative because they missed it , he had Melanoma and he was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma mastitis which means it went from the lung to his brain a few years later. Sant Barbara oncology saved his life with immunotherapy.. after a 2.5 year battle he’s alive and well. This was in 2017. Get to the ER asap if you can’t get to a Dermatologist!
Important information for sure. Great job! Just over 10 years ago on my first dermatologist appointment the Dr found a melanoma on my lower back. After 2 surgeries I’ve not had a recurrence. Yay! That did land me onto the state cancer registry as melanoma is the only skin cancer that the Dr must report. I’m now watching a spot that I think might be a nodular BCC. 🤦♂️ I also have additional AKs that my Dr and I are watching. Definitely protect your skin and wear sun screen!
Cancers can present differently on non-Euro, non-Caucasian skin. My partner, who has an Asian background, had a basal cell carcinoma that was black, almost blue, and uniform in color. His skin is light in tone though he tans easily.The first dermatologist he went to said it was a normal mole. That just didn’t seem right to me & I urged him to see a different derm. That one did a biopsy, but thought it was nothing. It came back as basal cell. My partner had MOHS surgery and that was it, other than follow ups for a few years. No meds, nothing else. SO, if you get an answer that doesn’t feel quite right, consider that it might not be. AND also consider that much research was done on European ancestry skin and other ancestries may present differently than the “standard.” And as the docs say, there are cancers that don’t look typical in any case.
I have sen a few of your videos and Yesterday this popped up. A bit scary since I was at the hospital just four days ago and the doctor took away what seems like the basil one. I got blank when he said tumour so this video calmed me a lot. In my family, on my mothers side all have passed in different forms of cancer and ten years ago my father too…
Very helpful! I’m about to start my fair-skinned, freckled, elderly face on 5-FU for multiple AK. Pretty daunting but better to pre-treat than to treat. Thanks for sharing your expertise and good cheer!
Uhhggg...I really appreciated this video...I am 65 year male that has been inindated with multiple skin cancer spots...Geezz I have quite a few. I have had multiple removals with several Mo's surgeries that have worked. I'm trying to work with dermotologists that will treat me like a human being rather than a lost cause. I have used the imiquimod in past with great sucess. And ironically, many of the scrapings done for lab work have done enough in that area to clean up the cancer area. My Dermotologists will on perform 2 or 3 biopsy scrappings at a time, and then only do 1 Mo's procedure at a time... I would prefer to do many at a time to get it over with becuase it's expensive. Anywy, I'm super frustrated, becuase I would like some doctors to be a little more sympathetic that scheduling multiple Mo's procedures or oral chemo. They is very little consultation with my current Dermotologist. They make me feel a little creepy...they suggestion is doing the oral chemo, but I am weary due to all the side effects. I would like to get to the root cause of so many spots. it feels more like an imune system issue. Because they come and go. Uhhgg did any of that make any since. I am in the Kansas City area...would love a reference for a Doctor consult.
It’s very difficult with 🇬🇧 GP’s. At my local GP surgery, the Doctors refuse to see patients with spots/moles/blemishes etc. They don’t think it’s important enough. We have to go to a dermatologist consultant privately now. No doubt many ppl will now be leaving these things to grow as the cost is quite high to see them privately😥
I agree, 🏴🇬🇧 it’s difficult to get past receptionists these days to even see a doctor. Having said that they are on the ball when it comes to investigating a suspicious spot. I recently had a squamous cell removed in dermatology at the hospital, now I am worried about something else near the incision, so when I called this morning they said to go in for a photo which they show to a doctor. (This happened the first time too, they look at it and then refer you to hospital.) Edit: After it was removed, it turned out not to be a cancer but an immunity thing.
Thank you for this video. So helpful. I recently discovered I had basal cell carcinoma on the top of my head. Had Mohs surgery, like they mentioned the surgery sight was way bigger than the mole. Sutures under the skin and 11 staples for good measure. Thank goodness all procedures were pain free. Still have sutures sticking up but they don’t hurt. I had a great group of doctors and staff. As soon as I could had a full body check with dermatologist. We really need to be aware of our body and any changes. Don’t hesitate, go get it checked out. Watching from Texas. 18:58
My mom was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma 14 years ago. She went through hell and back on an experimental drug. It was a mole on her foot. The mole and a large chunk of skin (down to her tendon) was taken. The dr insisted on letting it fill in naturally. So as a kid i would help her clean it out daily. My dad was too squeamish to assist and I was a kid so I thought the tendon was cool and it didn’t phase me. She’d wiggle her pinky toe and you could see the tendon move. After the experimental treatment she had to go back for check ups yearly because she was told it WOULD come back at some point in time. Year 10, it wasn’t back. A newer derm told her she didn’t have to come back anymore. Year 12, it was back and metastasized. Her lymph node in her pelvic region is destroyed now from targeted radiation. It helped to shrink the cancer but it’s not gone and now her leg swells to elephantiasis levels. She’s on the targeted gene therapy, two specific drugs she has to take every day. Immunotherapy is being held off because the effects of the experimental drug 10 years ago caused more autoimmune problems including crohns which went into remission 5 years before her cancer came back. The immunotherapy could trigger her Crohn’s disease to come back full force. She use to body build when I was a kid so she was a sun goddess back in the day- sun bathing and tanning beds. Because of her cancer, I started going in for check ups and have had 2 spots removed both basal and squamous. Our genes plus her in the sun for years was not a good combo. She’s a fighter, year 3 of stage 4 treatment. Every day is a new adventure and some are better than others. Thank you for spreading awareness about skin cancer. It’s nasty, nasty stuff.
My mom was recently diagnosed with melanoma so I decided to get a full body check with dermatologist. She found a suspicious tiny mole that has characteristics of melanoma but she said it was too small at this point to biopsy, and pathologist wouldn’t have much to examine if anything to say whether it’s melanoma or not. Would like some confirmation that her thinking is right as my mom had a large area on her arm removed and hers was size of pencil eraser. Really prefer to catch this as early as possible.
Thank you for saying that melanomas can be light in color. Mine was light pink ,barely noticeable. Every time I go to the dermatologist office they have pictures of dark melanomas on the wall. I tease my dermatologist that I am going to bring a magic marker and write -there are also light ones. Once again Thank you, you could have just saved a life.
An annual visit to a dermatologist is considered preventative care by your insurance. It’s a quick appointment where they look you over from head to toe. The easiest doctor appointment. I’ve had three spots biopsied and thankful they were nothing. I’m fair with lots of moles on my bad so she tends to be more aggressive with her biopsies, but I feel better getting thoroughly checked out each year.
Very, Very informative information. I have a lump on my upper left quadrant and it’s painful to the touch. I have an appointment to see my doctor on 8/21/24. I pray it’s nothing serious. I’ve traveled a lot to different islands since 2021. I just pray it’s Not cancer related 😢.
I'm almost 70. My dad died of melanoma in 1971 at the age of 39. He had a mole on the bottom of his foot which my mom discovered while we were at the beach. He was operated on at Sloan Kettering in NY and 6 months later passed away. The cancer had spread everywhere including to his brain. There was no SPF or regular skin checks then so we've come a long way. I never miss an annual check up, but I also recommend checking yourself periodically - including toes and feet, and having a friend/spouse/partner look at your back and nape of neck.
I’m so very sorry for all that, and your terrible loss. I lost my husband but not like that. My heart is with you ❤
Don’t forget your scalp and fingers too ❤
I'm so sorry for your Dad. I want to share my story. At age 35 (1 year after having my daughter) a friend noticed a dark black small mole on the bottom of my foot and insisted I see someone, which I did the next day. They biopsied it and I was in surgery within a week. Stage 3+ malignant melanoma 😮 recovery was tough since the bottom of the foot takes a long time. thanks to Mayo clinic for saving my life. I'm now in my 60's and have had checks EVERY year.
@@lisam7770 Thank you for sharing. I'm so grateful that there was a good outcome for you and your family.
Annual mole check up? Is that a thing? Are you in the USA? We don’t get that here in uk.
The timing of this video is so ironic. A friend texted me last night about having to get some spots removed, and now your video pops up. Okay, I am convinced to go get my own spots checked just in case. Thank you! 👍🏼
Get a mole mapping done and see your dermatologist once a year!
My Dermatologists office says that they "Don't do skin mapping" @BambiBryant
Fantastic idea! You gotta take care of yourself, because no one else will!
Please don’t think this is an “old person” thing. Ive so far had 4 melanomas at age 12, 16, 18 and again at 27 and 2 BCCs as well. I’m now 41 and getting another 3 moles cut off soon. Wear sunscreen EVERY DAY and keep an eye on your skin.
Are you a redhead? 👩🏻🦰I am and now that I’ve had a couple children and I’m at the end of my 20’s I’m noticing more and more moles that look odd. Getting them checked out soon.
It’s not an older person cancer! When I was around 10 years old my maternal grandmother remarried and the man she married had a 17 year old granddaughter and they were going to vacation in Florida so went shopping for flip flops and the 17 year old told her mom she could not wear flip flops because she had a mole between her toes and it would hurt so going forward it was Melanoma and she didn’t live very long after the diagnosis, I’m 60 now and I’ve shared this heartbreaking real life story to many especially moms and dads who are taking care of children! God bless you and check your skin!❤🙏❤🙏
Thank you for the call out, i had no idea about the age thing
Stay away from tanning beds also.
I'm so glad this is being discussed. My moms primary doctor misdiagnosed her squamous cell skin cancer. She ended up finding out after it had moved inside her body. She went through so much before she passed on. 😔
So sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing though. It may help someone else get early treatment.
Help people to get a second opinion
Hey first comment. Also I’ve had basal cell and my husband has squamous. We see dermatologists regularly and have them take care of. Really good explanation! Oh we’re 80 and we live in Florida
Derm told my husband ( who only went in to see doc because I forced him) …” that’s nothing! I have been doing this 25 years, that’s nothing.” My very wise husband said, I can’t go home with this still on me, my wife will kill me!” So he reluctantly cut it off while murmuring how rediculous this was. Got a call four days later it was cancer! Same doctor called to say we need to come in and get a larger area removed. I said “ Oh we will! But not at your office!!” EGO VS PATIENT CARE!!!
I took my husband to a dermatologist for a spot l thought was cancer. She said she didn’t think it was, but she took the spot off and it was squamous cell. On his next visit she admitted l was right.
Good for you , I wouldn't either
Very timely. I was just diagnosed with melanoma. It was caught early. I’m scheduled for a wide excision in the next 2 weeks. It’s so important to have your total body checked regularly, avoid excessive sun exposure, and wear sunscreen. Thank you so much for your expert videos. They are so helpful.
I was 30 and had what two doctors said was a blood blister on the top of my foot. I finally found a doctor to biopsy and it was melanoma. I had lymph nodes removed, hadn't spread, thank the Lord. 9 years later same foot, right above first one, melanoma again. We did catch it quicker so less of my skin removed. Now I am 53 AND SO FAR SO GOOD!
Sending you so many prayers . I'm going to get checked tomorrow I have a mole on my back that looks like it's bleeding from the inside and I have another mole that I've had for probably a year now that really looks like it. I'm really scared. I've also had swelling in my feet and I'm exhausted all the time. I pray it's nothing. I hope you are ok. Sorry if I over shared.
Thank you for making this video! I’ve had every type of skin cancer mentioned in this video. It is so very important to go get a abnormal looking mole, or red spot checked out. I had 2 big red spots on the left side of nose that had been there for years. I thought that the area was being rubbed raw by my sunglasses. Turned out I had 2 deep Basel cell carcinoma’s that required Moh’s surgery. The surgeon had to remove 6 layers on one spot, and 3 layers on the other spot. I needed reconstructive surgery because he couldn’t close the wounds!!! I see my Dermatologist every 6 months now for a check of my skin. So thank you for this information !!
I just had mohs surgery on my nose and he couldn't close the wound. It's been 5 weeks and it's slowly healing. I didn't know it was common to leave open!
My wounds could not be left open because they were way too big. One of the wounds was the size of a dime. My surgeon put some play dough stuff that is used for surgery to cover the wound so it wouldn’t get infected. Then, the next day, at his surgery center, he did a “ flap “ instead of a skin graph. The flap reconstruction is when the patient grows their own skin graph. It’s hard to explain without making this comment any longer! If your interested, look up flap reconstruction surgery. I hope that your wound heals quickly 💕
Basel's can come back - one on my head was removed twice ( primary Dr) and it came back, a Dermatologist then did Moh's (2 times ) yep, I have a hole in my scalp, but Looks like it's finally gone now.
Best video you guys have made! Excellent information. As a red head with freckles, I appreciate this. Thank you!
Age 60, reddish hair and freckles. Noticed 2 white pimples that itched on my hair part. Showed to several doctors, was given creams. Pimple patch continued to grow and itch. Again showed dermatologist and internist. Given creams. 2 months later my entire neck blew up like a tire. My doctor cried when she saw me, ordered biopsy. Report came back stating only
“STAGE 4 Metastatic Melanoma “.
Don’t know how I could have played it differently…… when my doctors didn’t know. Thank GOD for YERVOY/OPDIVO Immunotherapy. Cancer free in 4 months. They still say I was a miracle 🙏
I'm 54, fair skin, FL born native. I'm 1 week post MOHs surgery for squamous cell carcinoma on my hand. What they took is maybe a little bigger than a quarter. I've seen the dermatologist every 6 months for years & am good with sunscreen, but don't always remember my hands (driving). Last couple of yrs I've kept sunscreen in my car/purse so I can't forget to use it. Thank you for this post, much appreciated!
Great video. I have had skin cancer 3x and each time, it was such a small uninteresting spot that I would never have guessed they were cancerous.
Can’t wait to see the MOHS video. I am a CMA at a derm clinic in Oregon and I assist with MOHS. It’s my favorite part of my job. I appreciate that you mentioned that not all melanoma are dark in color. We have seen those in clinic and people don’t tent to realize that.
I know this is not what people usually ask you to discuss, but thank you for doing so! this is such an important topic!
I was at my doctor for a checkup and mentioned that a mole on my back was itchy. He took a look at it and I could tell by the look on his face that something was wrong. He made me an appointment with a dermatologist for the next day. Three days later I had surgery to remove my melanoma. Don't be afraid to tell your doctor when something doesn't feel right.
They usually ignore it.
I was the one that told my sister to get a spot checked out, turned out it was melanoma. She had to have surgery to get it removed. Thankfully our cousin is a dermatologist with her own practice. I said she should send her chart over to get a 2nd opinion being she is out of state. She called my sister's doctor and had him go back in a second time and go deeper. To be sure it wouldn't have a chance to come back. Listen to your family when they tell you something doesn't look right!! My family is all skin, blonde hair, blue eyes. Higher chance. And my sister used to tan in tanning beds as a teenager. It's a wake up call.
Why does your race matter. Blue eyes, blond? So Coloniser lol
This is the best video that Doctorly has ever made- so important!
So helpful! A friend was diagnosed with a basil cell carcinoma on her upper lip. When they removed it, it left quite a cavernous hole and once healed, an ugly, disfiguring scar on her face. She was annoyed that they gauged out such a honking blob to remove what had been a tiny lump! More motivation to keep applying those SPFs, avoiding the sun and wearing UPF clothing.
My dad went to his dermatologist for a spot on his head. Dermatologist said it was nothing to worry about. Next day, he had an appointment with his PCP who scheduled him for a biopsy. Turned out it was Melanoma. He went through Immunotherapy and was doing really well. After that stopped, he was started on radiation and died 1.5 months later.
Always get a second opinion!!
Holy Crap! I have a spot on my chest that is red and itches just like what Dr. Shah experienced. I'm definitely going to set up an appointment asap with my dermatologist to get it checked out. Thanks for bringing this to the forefront and when we should get things checked out.
Please keep us updated on how everything goes! Wishing you the best - Shah
I got into the dermatologist the same day that I watched the video and turns out it was a precancerous spot. The Dr. froze it right off and said that I should be good, but if that spot comes back by Easter then I need to come in and they'll take a different look. Thanks for putting out these videos! @@Doctorly
gah damn good luck.@@heathernord2051
@@frosty2857try Ultraviolette SPF50 ! Its made in Australia as we are the skin cancer capital of the world. You can buy it in USA tho, check where. Highly recommend… no grease, no white residue . Great product ! Yep Ive had malignant melanoma with skin flap surgery on my chest- teenage damage that I kept repeating for that sun tan. No knowledge back then …now I freak out about our weather and every spot I have . Coming up to 5 yrs cancer free 🙏🏼
@@heathernord2051glad you got it taken care of so quickly
Thank you for another excellent video. You are saving lives.
Regarding get it out quickly: I had to wait 3 months for an appointment with my dermatologist. Skin biopsy performed and basal cell dx. Then I had to wait 3 months to the day for a mohs procedure per their protocol. The scheduler said, don't worry it's not an aggressive cancer. They would not push the date up. I finally got it done on their timeline and had clear borders. Thank God.
Went in for post basal cell removal check and mentioned a unrelated area that was chronically itchy. Derm wasn’t too concerned. Looked like a routine freckle but biopsied anyway. Not in a sun exposed area. Path came back as metastatic melanoma. Large excision with lymph node removal and so far so good. Grandfather died of melanoma. Never be afraid to point out any areas of concern
Well done. Informative video without being either unintelligible or patronizing.
Very helpful. My mother had skin cancer. And I’ve had precancerous areas removed. I’m pretty hyper vigilant probably because I’m fair and a redhead plus I’m a nurse. The areas were all dry patchy areas that were itchy, something that people wouldn’t probably suspect as precancerous. Your explanations were very clear and really helpful. I’ve sent the video to a few friends. Thx
I do not have any visible moles but I just scheduled a body check for a baseline.
Great conversation and very balanced discussion of treatments. Wish more doctors were this informative.
Thank you so much for this video. It is so helpful. My husband was diagnosed with basel cell carcinoma on his face and his surgery is taking place next week.
Thank you for your very detailed, but non-Derm friendly explanations! I have been an MA in Derm for a year and this was presented in excellent form. I enjoy your other content, but so happy to see the reality of what we should be concerned about regarding our skin.
I am one of those people that had a rare amelanotic melanoma. Thankfully it was still in situ and surgery completely removed it. My dermatologist thought it was a basal cell, so we were both surprised when the path report came back.
My mom had the same thing. On her face. I asked her to go to dermatologist. All surprised it was melanoma. Completely removed and no recurrence.
Amazing video, super high quality. As biomedical engineer I had melanoma mentioned multiple times in uni but not other types. Thank you so much.
My husband has had a kidney transplant since 1966. The first one was at UCLA in 1966 and the second at Cedars Sinai in 2003. He has had to take immunosuppressants for 58 years and boy does he support our local dermatologist for skin cancer removal and treatments. Thank you for this important video. He has lost half of one ear and some of his lip from aggressive squamous cell. I’m not trying to scare anyone because his story is a little different. But the message here is so important. It’s so much better to see your dermatologist early, rather than to wait. ❤
My husband also lost a section of his lower lip to a squamous cell carcinoma that looked like a cold sore.
I never learned about this part of immuno suppressive meds. Thanks for the info.
Celtic family so I am fair, freckles, blue eyes. At the beach during my youth though always had sun screen. Dad died melanona at age 72. Decided to have body check because a freckles on my upper arm grew wider and with a dual pigmented “shadow”. Also a mole changed from circle to figure eight shape. Ding ding ding! Derm doc too two biopsies and said figure 8 was nevis( birthmark ) and was fine. I insisted. She resisted. I insisted and quoted “ I will pay out of pocket for everything if this a matter of insurance coverage, and if it’s not an insurance issue, then I can easily have it biopsied elsewhere. Begrudgingly she did (she was pissed). Three days later I am having a rare melanoma removed that the Oncologist said would have killed me in less then 5 years. He also called it a birthmark and asked how did I know to have it biopsied? How many people do you know that have a mole that looks like Salvador Davi created it? 😂He cut a HUGE and deep hole in my leg that took 2 months to heal. ( I took photos to show friends). There were 3 biopsies and 3 DIFFERENT melanomas. Be your own advocate. Do not let anyone, no matter how many degrees they have and how intimidating their refusals are, to dismiss your concerns. 🦋
Im so glad you spoke up and demanded you get the biopsy!! So many people just trust the doc.
People need to realize that doctors are fallible humans, just like us. They are wrong, A LOT. They make mistakes regularly, though not always life threatening, thats why they have malpractice insurance.
Always stand up for yourself if you dont feel right about what is diagnosed/ignored/written off. If one doctor is not willing to listen, find another that will. We only get one body so we need to take care of it to the best of our ability and LISTEN to it.
Perfect timing for this to come on my feed. I’ve had AK on my scalp since 2023, that’s been frozen by my derm twice. This past Friday, my dermatologist did a biopsy. We shall see in 7-10 days what the lab says.
My 98yo mom was recently diagnosed with melanoma on the sole of one foot. We’re Black and I remembered my Black derm telling me a decade ago the common places for our skin cancer is palms of hands, soles of feet. The surgery wasn’t done because of the size of excision needed with a skin graft and expected slow to no healing due to location combined with her advanced age and already compromised mobility. Tough decision but we believe the right one.
Bob Marley died of Melanoma that began on big toe.
People live too 105 110 today. Take it off. Its cancer.
"Your video is incredibly timely! I was just chatting with a friend about the necessity of getting spots checked, and then your video pops up! It's like fate! After watching, I'm not only motivated to schedule my own spot check but also to explore your product for added protection. Thank you for the reminder and valuable information! 👍🏼"
I am now 72 and am paying for my youthful love of sunbathing. I have had a MOHs procedure, dr. had to go down three layers. Since then I've had three excisions. I now have a body scan every six months to have any suspicious spots frozen. I have a bandage on my left forearm right from my last visit to the dermatologist.
Please pay attention everyone. I had skin cancer 2x before I even turned 40! Go to your dermatologist and get checked all over.
The sun was never a joke lol
Thank you for doing this video. My husband has a large bleeding spot behind his ear. We see doctor next week.
Perfect timing on this video. I just had surgery to removal a spot suspicious for Melanoma. You both are excellent at explaining in a way the lay person can understand.
Thank you so much for sharing this! As a medical esthetician working with dermatology patients, I appreciate you guys and the simplistic and easy to understand way you explained everything, thank you! Wear sunscreen everyday, and get your skin checked if you encounter an abnormality. Our skin is the largest organ and so important to take care of ❤️❤️
Thanks for this video! I was just searching for it recently, and all the structured info you shared is so helpful and less overwhelming.
Thank you for this video👍
I recently had my 2nd squamous removed from neck. Even though I knew it was aggressive and got a biopsy within a few weeks, the carcinoma grew deep and was near a nerve that branched toward the lymphnodes in my arm pit. I now have to do 30 days of radiation therapy even though margins were clear with mohs surgery. The doctor warned that cancers can "skip" down nerves and spread.
Thank you again for the message.
PLEASE do a video about very dry mature skin (over 50). How to use / layer each product correctly like hyaluronic acids, what face creams are best, what ingredients to look for in creams, etc. Thank you!
One of the most important videos you’ve made. Thank you, doctors.
You both complement each other so well.
I had a melanoma skin cancer taken off of my shin one year ago today. It wasnt what i thought it would be as it looked like a tan spot. Thankfully i went to my dermatologist and found it at stage zero. I have a beautiful scar from the surgery. Thankful it is out. I go every three months now 6 months. If you question anything!!! Go get it checked.
I’m 56 and just had a procedure done to remove Basel Cell Carcinoma. I now have a 2 in scar and bald spot on the top of my head, as well as a very large dent where they removed tissue down to my skull. It’s been a much bigger process than I ever thought it would be. PLEASE wear sunscreen and a hat!!! You will be so glad you did! 👍🏼😃
Thank you bald spots here holes in my face from my ears to the corners of my mouth. I smoke it chears me up jokes on me
Thank you for this video.
My sister died of melanoma that had metastasized to her brain. Curious thing is the original melanoma was not ever found. She was diagnosed in January 2014 and died May 2014. It was so fast...😢 I miss her so much.
Get a skin check every year, please.
She may have had a mucosal melanoma on the INSIDE of her body. It is more aggressive than the cutaneous they are taking about here and often times metastasizes to the brain. The public needs more education on this “different” type of skin cancer. It is on the “wet” portions of the skin. This may be why you never knew where it started. It is a very sneaky cancer.
I am really sorry to hear this. my husband died from melanoma in 2018 under similar circumstances- he was only 48. He had severe headaches and MRI showed Mets in the brain as well as other places. The original melanoma was also never found despite extensive testing. We went to the best melanoma specialists in the West (UC Davis/Stanford/University of Arizona in Tucson/UCSF) for consults and second opinions. It was suggested more than once that there was a theory that his immune system cleared the original melanoma but cells still managed to metastasize through his lymph system and end up throughout his body. He battled 18 months before his body had enough. You are right to say get an annual skin cancer check- and get it from a dermatologist.
My mom’s melanoma was inside her eye, it was discovered after detaching her retina. Such few treatment options. In spite of removing her beautiful bright blue eye, it still metastasized to her liver and pancreas before it ultimately won the battle.
@@Love-ql7rd i did not know this existed, but it does somewhat explain some things my doctors haven't been able to. I had a melanoma 14 years ago on the back of my calf. They assured me that the sun was at fault. i had the wide excision and was lucky that i needed no further treatment, but they sent me for every test know to man in the following year(s). yearly eye exams, lung X-rays, Mamos, endoscopies, normal gyno stuff and last but not least, a colonoscopy. I promise you the sun has never shined there. no one could explain this to me. i think you just did.
Thank you so much for your video. I watched your video. I had a place on the top of my ear that kept healing and going away. Had I not seen your video I would have ignored it as it was healing. As it turns out (after showing my dermatologist and having it tested) it is a basil cell and I am having it treated. Even though it is the least serious type of skin cancer because of its location it may become an issue if untreated. You guys are my new heroes.
Thank you for addressing this. I had a flesh colored BB shaped bump where my earlobe meets my jaw. My GP and I were both surprised that it was stage 3 melanoma. I had radical lymphadenecomy and three treatments of biochemotherapy. It was an intense 6 months. It's been 10 years with no reoccurrence. I'm religious about avoiding the Sun and wearing sunscreen. The point I want to make is to back up your observation that we should have anything unusual checked. 🖤💖
As someone with thousands of moles (thanks mom and dad, not that I’ve been self-conscious about it my entire life or anything 😢), I truly appreciate this video. I go to my dermatologist regularly, and found some reassurance in something he told me recently. He said that most melanomas occur on skin that’s not regularly seen by the sun - lower arms, face, chest. Those are common places for the skin to build up tolerance. It’s more so the places where unexpected sunburns occur or improper UV coverage is given - a bad sunburn on your thighs, back, butt, or scalp, or via a tanning bed that sees skin that the sun usually doesn’t. Do you agree - Yes/no? I think we need to be careful/cautious always, but for whatever reason that made me a little less anxious. 😊
I’ve had 4 melanomas so far in they’ve all been in my chest and upper back and thigh. All mine were on skin that was exposed a lot. Never heard that before.
I’m 50 I have fair skin and have had several sun burns in my life I often don’t use sunscreen screen, I don’t often wear a top in summer. Never have I noticed any kind of skin cancer in over 50 years, so if it’s not happened then, I guess it won’t happen now or in future.
I've worked with Mohs surgeons for about 18 years. Thank you for saying bx isn't a/ the surgery ! The amount of pts who hope/ think its gone after bx is so common.
What are you saying?
THANKS SO MUCH FOR THIS VERY INFORMATIVE VIDEO!! I'm 72 and had a very dark purple or black spot that was very small come up on my lower leg a few months ago. It didn't look like any other spots I had seen. Had an appointment already scheduled with my PCP, and am in between my annual checkups with dermatologist! Ask my primary care doctor to look at it and he said I should get in with dermatologist before my next scheduled appointment. This was on a light scar where I had had something insignificant removed decades ago! Dermatologist did a biopsy and last week I learned it is melanoma! Saw surgeon and he is going to remove a chunk out of my leg and plan to do a test on lymph nodes and remove effected ones in June. He drew a diagram of how he would do the margin around the biopsy and then the triangle looking ends in order to close it! It looked just like your diagram!! Appreciate the pictures and info on the other types of skin cancer!! We ALL need to check ourselves in between regular visits to our dermatologist!! God bless y'all for what you are doing to help people learn about this dangerous condition!! Thanks again!! ❤🤗🙏🙏
I have a small red spot on my face for over a year that isn’t growing, but it’s not clearing up . I have a derm appointment next week that I was thinking of canceling because the spot probably isn’t anything but an” old lady” spot, but after watching this video, I am definitely going to my appointment!
I had one like that on my neck and it was squamous cell , please get it checked!
Very good. I don't bother to thumbs up videos much, but everyone needs to see this video. Nice job.
I’ve had squamous cell twice - both on top of my head. Growing up, I never wore hats. Now I wear them anytime I’m outside.
I had superficial squamous cell om my face, just in front and above my ear, this year. I also have Palmoplantar pustulosis ( a kind of psoriasis) and thought the scaly stuff under my hair was just psoriasis popping up somewhere else ( PPP is restricted to hands and feet) I was having my ear checked at my primary and she asked if I had a dermatologist. She referred me and off I went not thinking anything about it. Imagine my surprise when I got the results. Ended up having a mohs surgery and everything so far is all good. I go in for skin checks every 6 months just to make sure if anything else rears it's ugly head, it is caught early. I spent the majority of my 65 yrs at a beach or out in the sun in some form. I do have fair skin, light hair and blue eyes ( Swedish background) You may think it would never happen to you, but it can.
Such an important message and video. Thank you, Doctors! I was mis-diagnosed and treated for four (4) years by my Primary Care Physician and a Dermatologist (That was recommended by my Primary Doc at the time), specifically for an irritated spot on my chest. Long/Short, I now have and must see often, a dermatologist who specializes and treats skin disorders and skin cancer that I trust completely. It has been a long road since with surgeries/chemo treatments, but I am now in good hands and on the mend and want to stress how important it is to do your research and schedule with a Derm Doctor (If you do not live near Doctor Shah and/or Doctor Maxfield and cannot see one of them) that does biopsies and specializes and treats skin disorders/skin cancer.
I had 2 spots of stage 1 melanoma removed last year. I'm lucky we caught it, but I have some gnarly scars as a constant reminder now on my thigh and shoulder. Thanks for bringing more awareness to this.
Had my annual mole checkup just last week and had to have a biopsy on my shoulder. I’ve had quite of few biopsies but thankfully only 1 has been basal cell. Coming from a moly family, I have kept my annual checkup for years and hopefully keep them all in check. Unfortunately I don’t have anyone to help keep an eye on them so the annual check is so very important.
It would be awesome if y’all would do a full, cruelty-free skincare routine❤️😊
Thank you for making this! I have skin that makes all the moles and freckles. I heard the ugly duckling rule from a dermatologist in my 20’s and it is so helpful.
I had irritation on my ear. I asked my dermatologist to give it a look. He said it was fine. Seven months this later I asked him about it again. He said ok, you want me to biopsy it? I said yes. It was cancer.
Thanks for making this video. Maybe not as fun or as glamorous as your usual content but the information provided here is so important.
Thank you for this! I have followed you both for years and been meticulous about sunscreen however I was recently diagnosed with malignant melanoma on my back :(
Had a wide local excision and all margins came back clear but super nervous about future melanomas. Wondering about reoccurrence? Just so scary, thank you again
I had melanoma 20 years ago. Recently my Derm told me to not use any growth factors in my skincare as it could make an underlying skin cancer grow.
Very helpful topic, message is clear do not wait - thank you!
My husband's boss was single, and so he was unaware that he had melanoma on his back. Unfortunately, it spread, and he died from it.
I always worry about my back. Can’t reach it to put sunscreen on it. Now i use SPF shirts, but it may take 10 years for cancer to show up.
How sad
That is very sad. 😢
@@gdiup9241 There are sprays you can use.
My sister passed from Melanoma stage 4 three yrs ago
I’m ngl I love you guys, you’ve cured my acne and body odor and I’m working on my dry scalp but you’ve don’t done so much to help me so, thankyou.
Excellent presentation. This video was one of the best that I have seen on You Tube. I am a health care professional and this was easy and informative to watch. I wish we had such well-presented lectures when I was in school.
Today i went to the doctor to have a mole checked out she called the dermatologist one time after one look at it so she wanted me to go today and there was no spot left untill thursday morning 8.30 i will stay positive ❤❤one love
I love all of your videos. Please make a video for dry skin care recommendations. ❤
I have to wonder if anyone has developed a "photo booth" that you could walk into - naked - and get photos of your entire body. Use the emerging AI field to see what's new or suspicious and help the Derm focus on specific spots.
Great idea!
That is genius, they should invent that.
Email Elon
They have, its called Niko or something like that, the Japanese word for cat, saw it on insta a couple of days ago. Its about £380 and they have one in London :)
Im dying from metastatic squamous cell carcinoma . Im slowly dying😢. It's a long story. But I had cancer spread after surgery to remove it from my vulvar area. It wasn't even stage one yet in 2017. It was found in my lymph nodes in July 2023. I didn't feel comfortable with the surgery to remove it this time because 2 surgeons declined to do it as it's complicated . One guy offered but for me it was to risky. I tried chemo... couldn't handle it. Did radiation and it didn't work. I just went to the er for pain in my right side and was told it's spread to my right lower lung. But man you have no idea how much this is slowly taking me down. I can barely walk . It messed with my hormones and sent me into full menopause. My hair is falling out from the radiation I did. My skin isn't the same . I have zero energy and lymphedema in my lower abdomen and both legs. It's torcher 🤦🏻♀️. I was told I have 6 months to 2 yrs. Cancer is not at all what I thought. So many people don't understand what it is like or what someone goes through. Im not trying to sound like lm feeling sorry for myself. . But I hope u learn something from this. Demand treatment after surgery should u get cancer. Because my original surgery they did nothing after wards. That's how this spread. Also If u r reading this ...I hope you are happy and healthy 😇! Live your best life while u r healthy. I would never believe u if you told me I'd be going out like this . I was doing great! Walking , eating good .. I looked good for my age ! Now everything is out of my control.
Wishing you well from Australia 🤗
Sorry to hear that, I'm praying that the master healer regenerate your blood cells from the tiniest point, begin your healing now in the name of Jesus Christ 🙏💞
@@shad5107 Thank you so very much! 🙏🏼 Truly means a lot! ❤️😇
@@NavCom209 I genuinely thank you for this ! More than you know. It's the smallest of kind gestures that feel so big ! ❤️🥰
God Bless your heart, miss. Hope you're feeling a little better today. Sending love and prayers your way..
Thank you...this video has encouraged me to go see a dermatologist.
This video is fantastic. Some dermatologists also help diagnose breast cancer will you also be making a video for this?
Great, video, great information 🙏my Daughter has a mole on her back, hasn’t had it looked at, I’m on her case 🙏she needs to listen to her Mom!
Remember to insist and use certified credited pathology. My husband had a few moles taken off his back because I was concerned about one of them… They were tested and sent to San Luis Obispo pathology before we had great pathology in Santa Barbara California the San Luis office has been closed down. His pathology came back negative because they missed it , he had Melanoma and he was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma mastitis which means it went from the lung to his brain a few years later. Sant Barbara oncology saved his life with immunotherapy.. after a 2.5 year battle he’s alive and well. This was in 2017. Get to the ER asap if you can’t get to a Dermatologist!
Important information for sure. Great job! Just over 10 years ago on my first dermatologist appointment the Dr found a melanoma on my lower back. After 2 surgeries I’ve not had a recurrence. Yay! That did land me onto the state cancer registry as melanoma is the only skin cancer that the Dr must report. I’m now watching a spot that I think might be a nodular BCC. 🤦♂️ I also have additional AKs that my Dr and I are watching. Definitely protect your skin and wear sun screen!
Cancers can present differently on non-Euro, non-Caucasian skin. My partner, who has an Asian background, had a basal cell carcinoma that was black, almost blue, and uniform in color. His skin is light in tone though he tans easily.The first dermatologist he went to said it was a normal mole. That just didn’t seem right to me & I urged him to see a different derm. That one did a biopsy, but thought it was nothing. It came back as basal cell. My partner had MOHS surgery and that was it, other than follow ups for a few years. No meds, nothing else.
SO, if you get an answer that doesn’t feel quite right, consider that it might not be. AND also consider that much research was done on European ancestry skin and other ancestries may present differently than the “standard.” And as the docs say, there are cancers that don’t look typical in any case.
Trevor, you look fantastic. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us.
Getting the weird nodule on my chest that won't go away checked out. Thanks for bringing this to my attention, guys
Any update? Hope everything is ok for you.
I have sen a few of your videos and Yesterday this popped up. A bit scary since I was at the hospital just four days ago and the doctor took away what seems like the basil one. I got blank when he said tumour so this video calmed me a lot. In my family, on my mothers side all have passed in different forms of cancer and ten years ago my father too…
Very helpful! I’m about to start my fair-skinned, freckled, elderly face on 5-FU for multiple AK. Pretty daunting but better to pre-treat than to treat. Thanks for sharing your expertise and good cheer!
Thankyou ! You two are BOMB! love your information and so informative with your explanation in laymen’s terms love what you do 🥰
My two favourite doctors❤️
Uhhggg...I really appreciated this video...I am 65 year male that has been inindated with multiple skin cancer spots...Geezz I have quite a few. I have had multiple removals with several Mo's surgeries that have worked. I'm trying to work with dermotologists that will treat me like a human being rather than a lost cause. I have used the imiquimod in past with great sucess. And ironically, many of the scrapings done for lab work have done enough in that area to clean up the cancer area. My Dermotologists will on perform 2 or 3 biopsy scrappings at a time, and then only do 1 Mo's procedure at a time... I would prefer to do many at a time to get it over with becuase it's expensive. Anywy, I'm super frustrated, becuase I would like some doctors to be a little more sympathetic that scheduling multiple Mo's procedures or oral chemo. They is very little consultation with my current Dermotologist. They make me feel a little creepy...they suggestion is doing the oral chemo, but I am weary due to all the side effects. I would like to get to the root cause of so many spots. it feels more like an imune system issue. Because they come and go. Uhhgg did any of that make any since.
I am in the Kansas City area...would love a reference for a Doctor consult.
It’s very difficult with 🇬🇧 GP’s. At my local GP surgery, the Doctors refuse to see patients with spots/moles/blemishes etc. They don’t think it’s important enough. We have to go to a dermatologist consultant privately now. No doubt many ppl will now be leaving these things to grow as the cost is quite high to see them privately😥
I agree, 🏴🇬🇧 it’s difficult to get past receptionists these days to even see a doctor. Having said that they are on the ball when it comes to investigating a suspicious spot. I recently had a squamous cell removed in dermatology at the hospital, now I am worried about something else near the incision, so when I called this morning they said to go in for a photo which they show to a doctor. (This happened the first time too, they look at it and then refer you to hospital.)
Edit:
After it was removed, it turned out not to be a cancer but an immunity thing.
Thank you for this video. So helpful.
I recently discovered I had basal cell carcinoma on the top of my head. Had Mohs surgery, like they mentioned the surgery sight was way bigger than the mole. Sutures under the skin and 11 staples for good measure. Thank goodness all procedures were pain free.
Still have sutures sticking up but they don’t hurt. I had a great group of doctors and staff. As soon as I could had a full body check with dermatologist. We really need to be aware of our body and any changes.
Don’t hesitate, go get it checked out.
Watching from Texas. 18:58
My mom was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma 14 years ago. She went through hell and back on an experimental drug. It was a mole on her foot. The mole and a large chunk of skin (down to her tendon) was taken. The dr insisted on letting it fill in naturally. So as a kid i would help her clean it out daily. My dad was too squeamish to assist and I was a kid so I thought the tendon was cool and it didn’t phase me. She’d wiggle her pinky toe and you could see the tendon move. After the experimental treatment she had to go back for check ups yearly because she was told it WOULD come back at some point in time. Year 10, it wasn’t back. A newer derm told her she didn’t have to come back anymore. Year 12, it was back and metastasized. Her lymph node in her pelvic region is destroyed now from targeted radiation. It helped to shrink the cancer but it’s not gone and now her leg swells to elephantiasis levels. She’s on the targeted gene therapy, two specific drugs she has to take every day. Immunotherapy is being held off because the effects of the experimental drug 10 years ago caused more autoimmune problems including crohns which went into remission 5 years before her cancer came back. The immunotherapy could trigger her Crohn’s disease to come back full force. She use to body build when I was a kid so she was a sun goddess back in the day- sun bathing and tanning beds. Because of her cancer, I started going in for check ups and have had 2 spots removed both basal and squamous. Our genes plus her in the sun for years was not a good combo. She’s a fighter, year 3 of stage 4 treatment. Every day is a new adventure and some are better than others. Thank you for spreading awareness about skin cancer. It’s nasty, nasty stuff.
As a very fair red head who is carpeted with freckles in addition to visually checking my skin I also pay attention to any changes in skin texture.
You have helped me a lot to improve my skin and i am grateful for your advises.
My mom was recently diagnosed with melanoma so I decided to get a full body check with dermatologist. She found a suspicious tiny mole that has characteristics of melanoma but she said it was too small at this point to biopsy, and pathologist wouldn’t have much to examine if anything to say whether it’s melanoma or not. Would like some confirmation that her thinking is right as my mom had a large area on her arm removed and hers was size of pencil eraser. Really prefer to catch this as early as possible.
Thank you, doctors for the information and clarification. You’re awesome.
Thank you for saying that melanomas can be light in color. Mine was light pink ,barely noticeable. Every time I go to the dermatologist office they have pictures of dark melanomas on the wall. I tease my dermatologist that I am going to bring a magic marker and write -there are also light ones. Once again Thank you, you could have just saved a life.
Thank you for that important bit of info. I too, thought that Melanomas were dark.
Love this video it helps me out so much Thank you so much keep up the good work 😊
An annual visit to a dermatologist is considered preventative care by your insurance. It’s a quick appointment where they look you over from head to toe. The easiest doctor appointment. I’ve had three spots biopsied and thankful they were nothing. I’m fair with lots of moles on my bad so she tends to be more aggressive with her biopsies, but I feel better getting thoroughly checked out each year.
Thank you both. An excellent presentation in so many ways.
Very informative! I’m awaiting my skin biopsy results on my right temple.
I had a melanoma that didn’t look like one. Get everything checked
😊
Very, Very informative information. I have a lump on my upper left quadrant and it’s painful to the touch. I have an appointment to see my doctor on 8/21/24. I pray it’s nothing serious. I’ve traveled a lot to different islands since 2021. I just pray it’s Not cancer related 😢.