In 2010, I posted re moles and malignant melanoma. Since that time, that specific post has had almost 53,000 visits suggesting it is a concern to visitors. Over the years, I have had areas on my forehead and cheek (Actinic keratosis) removed via cryo-burning. I went in the other day and the usual spots were treated and then the full body inspection. I am rarely in the sun exposing more than arms and head anymore…not like the old days of tanning beds or sunbathing. Well the doc muttered ‘hmmm, that’s concerning’ to a spot on my lower/middle back. A slice was taken, biopsy performed and today I received the call the sample was cancer. A ‘simple’ procedure will be performed and further testing re lymph nodes etc.

This photo is quite identical to my back…kind of unassuming and so easily overlooked. So take warning sun worshippers….I am reposting the original post and there are plenty of good online links re images and what happens with each variety of damaged skin…benign or malignant. My doc said, ‘you may be very careful now, but you did so much of this damage years ago and it is just now catching up.’

https://swittersb.wordpress.com/2010/03/15/moles-malignant-melanoma/