Found this sore on my mom’s nose that bleeds and scabs but just won’t heal. The clinic is fully booked and I’m scared it might be something bad. Any ideas what this is?

The nose, in particular, is highly susceptible to developing BCC because it protrudes and is constantly exposed to UV radiation. This exposure damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause cancer. The good news is that BCC grows slowly and is less likely to spread to other parts of the body, but early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent extensive tissue damage.

Recognizing the warning signs of skin cancer can help in seeking timely medical intervention. Common symptoms of basal cell carcinoma include a pearly or waxy bump on the skin, a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a sore that bleeds, scabs, and then reopens.

Other warning signs include lesions with an irregular border, a spot that itches, crusts, or bleeds frequently, and any new growth that appears different from the rest of the skin. Paying attention to these changes, especially on sun-exposed areas, is vital in identifying potential skin cancers early.