A cancerous tumor visible from the outside can manifest in various ways, most commonly as a new lump, a changing mole, or a sore that doesn't heal. The exact appearance depends significantly on the type of cancer and its location.
General Appearance of External Tumors
When a cancerous tumor is visible or palpable from the outside of the body, its appearance can vary widely. Some tumors grow on the skin's surface, while others develop beneath the skin, causing a noticeable lump or mass.
Subcutaneous Lumps: Characteristics of Soft Tissue Sarcomas
One common type of tumor that can appear externally is a soft tissue sarcoma. These lumps form beneath the skin, often in the soft tissues like fat, muscle, or fibrous tissue. From the outside, a soft tissue sarcoma lump typically presents as:
- A Rounded Mass: It often appears as a distinct, rounded mass or swelling beneath the skin.
- Sudden Appearance: Such a lump can emerge quite suddenly.
- Location: They are frequently found on the arms, legs, chest, or torso.
- Texture: The lump's texture can vary; it might feel soft to the touch or be noticeably firm.
- Growth Pattern: A key characteristic is its growth. These lumps tend to grow noticeably bigger over a period of weeks and months after they are first discovered. This rapid or persistent growth is often a concerning sign.
Initially, these subcutaneous lumps might not cause pain, which can sometimes lead to delays in seeking medical attention.
Skin Cancers: Direct Surface Manifestations
Other cancerous tumors directly affect the skin and are visible on the surface. These include:
- Melanoma: Often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole, following the "ABCDE" rule (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter greater than 6mm, Evolving or changing).
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: May look like a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a sore that bleeds, scabs, and doesn't heal.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Can appear as a firm, red nodule; a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface; or a persistent sore that doesn't heal.
Key Characteristics to Observe
When noticing any new or changing lump or skin lesion, it's important to observe certain characteristics that could indicate a cancerous nature.
- Growth and Size: Any lump or lesion that is rapidly growing or increasing in size should be evaluated. This is particularly true for lumps that become noticeably larger over weeks or months.
- Shape and Borders: Malignant lesions often have irregular shapes or poorly defined, uneven borders.
- Color Changes: Uneven coloration, darkening, or the presence of multiple colors within a lesion can be a warning sign, especially for skin cancers.
- Texture: A lump might feel soft, firm, or hard. Skin lesions can be scaly, crusty, or ulcerated.
- Symptoms: While not always present, symptoms like itching, bleeding, oozing, or pain associated with a lump or skin lesion warrant medical attention.
- Persistent Sores: Any sore or wound on the skin that does not heal within a few weeks should be examined by a doctor.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for any new, growing, changing, or otherwise suspicious lump or skin lesion. Early detection is vital for the effective treatment of cancer. For more information, you can refer to reputable sources like the American Cancer Society or Mayo Clinic.
