Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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A spot on your skin

A skin lesion can be harmless, inflamed, infectious or malignant. Have it assessed if it grows, changes, bleeds, does not heal or looks clearly different from your other lesions. A skin biopsy may be needed if skin cancer is suspected.

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A skin lesion can be harmless, inflamed, infectious or malignant. Have it assessed if it grows, changes, bleeds, does not heal or looks clearly different from your other lesions. A skin biopsy may be needed if skin cancer is suspected.

  • A flat patch, raised bump, crust, scaling, blister or sore.
  • Changes in size, shape, colour, surface or sensation.
  • Take a clear dated photo with a ruler, but do not delay assessment for warning signs.
  • Do not scratch, pierce, cut or burn off an unknown lesion yourself.
  • Make an appointment for a lesion that grows, changes, bleeds or has not healed after four weeks.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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Further reading

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M
MelanomaMelanoma is skin cancer arising from pigment cells and can spread. A new or changing patch should be assessed promptly; early complete removal offers the best chance of cure.
S
Skin cancerSkin cancer is a collective name for several malignant skin conditions, including melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation play a major role, especially on a sunny island like Curaçao. However, skin cancer can affect every skin tone and does not always look like a dark mole. New, growing, bleeding or poorly healing patches need assessment. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by taking a biopsy or removing tissue for examination.
T
Treatments of the cervixIf screening shows abnormal cells on the cervix, further tests and treatment when needed can prevent them becoming cancer. An abnormal result does not automatically mean you have cancer.