Black circle on skin - #12572
I am freaking out a little bit because I just noticed this black circle on my skin, and I don't know what to make of it. It started about a week ago, like a tiny dot and has since expanded to a pretty noticeable black circle on my skin. At first, I thought maybe it was just a bruise or something harmless, but now I can't shake the feeling that it could be serious. My friend said maybe it's just a hyperpigmentation spot, but other people have mentioned that it could be something like a mole or worse!! I did have a weird allergic reaction last month, and I'm not sure if that might have triggered this black circle on my skin somehow. There's no pain or itching, but still, my heart races every time I look at it. I considered going to a dermatologist, but everyone is booked out like a month. Do you think I should just wait it out, or is there a chance this black circle on my skin could be something serious? I keep comparing it to pictures online and just getting more anxious!! Any advice about what to do here would be a huge help!!
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Doctors’ responses
First, it’s important to address the black circle on your skin carefully because changes in skin appearance can sometimes indicate a serious condition, though it could also be completely benign. While a new spot could indeed be something as simple as hyperpigmentation, or a mole, it’s crucial to consider the possibility of a malignant melanoma, as they can often start small and change in appearance over time. Melanoma risk factors include a history of sun exposure, fair skin, family history of skin cancer, and the appearance of new moles that change in size, shape, or color. The “ABCDE” criteria for assessing moles might be useful: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, and Evolving or changing in appearance. If the spot ticks these boxes, you should seek a specialized evaluation sooner rather than later. Given the backdrop of an allergic reaction last month, that is less likely to be tied directly to this particular skin change unless it was a contact dermatitis causing pigment alteration. Although dermatologists have long wait times, many offices have protocols for getting patients in sooner if there’s a concern of malignancy—don’t hesitate to mention these symptoms while booking. In the short term, continue to monitor the spot for any changes. Avoid excessive sun exposure and use effective sun protection like sunscreens. Avoid self-diagnosing based on online images as this could lead to unnecessary anxiety. If any unusual changes continue or if there’s significant worry, a general practitioner might be able to provide an initial evaluation and referral to a dermatologist who might expedite the examination if needed. While certain things can wait, the skin is an organ you should not overlook when it involves potentially concerning changes.
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