Skin cancers, whether primary or metastatic, can sometimes coexist with or even mimicfungal infectionsof the skin.
Skin cancer is relatively common, so knowing what to look for is vital.
When skin cancer mimics a fungal infection, it can go undiagnosed and start to spread in the body.
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If you believe that you have a fungal infection of the skin, see your dermatologist.
The first step is tobiopsy the skinto determine the cause of the irritation.
Its important to see your dermatologist right away if you notice a sore or skin infection that wont heal.
This is a classic sign of skin cancer and should never be ignored.
Your dermatologist may recommend several biopsies of the same area of the skin to determine if cancer is present.
When skin cancer mimics a fungal infection and is left untreated, it can begin to spread.
The longer skin cancer grows without treatment, the more difficult it is to treat.
If you have noticed a new skin growth or sore, see your dermatologist.
A Fungal Infection Can Be Mistaken for Cancer
Some fungalskin infectionscan resemble or mimic skin cancer.
If you have a fungal infection that is not improving, it may be mistaken as early skin cancer.
A skin biopsy will be able to show which condition is causing the issue.
A fungal infection on the skin is usually successfully treated with a topical antifungal treatment.
An oral antibiotic may be needed for abacterial infectionon the skin.
You may experience cancer and fungal infections at the same time.
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy affect your immune system and prevent it from effectively fighting infection.
This raises your risk of developing a fungal infection.
Treating the infection early will help you have a better prognosis.
If your doctor prescribes an antifungal medication, take it exactly as directed.
The most common form of skin cancer isbasal cell carcinoma.
This is not always the case but it may help when trying to determine what is going on.
Skin cancer often appears on skin that receives the most sunlight, such as the face or ears.
Skin fungal infections often appear in skin folds and areas of the skin where fungus can easily grow.
Its best to see your dermatologist for a professional skin exam once per year.
In addition to regular dermatology appointments, schedule time each month to perform a skin check.
Performing a regular skin exam is especially important if you are at higher risk of developing skin cancer.
A hand-held mirror may be helpful to have as well.
If you are unable to see the doctor quickly, take pictures and write down the date.
These microorganisms are usually helpful and do not need to be treated.
They are responsible for preventing skin infections and keeping your skin healthy.
However, when these microorganisms overgrow or get out of balance, an infection can occur.
It is helpful to know the signs and symptoms to look for with both conditions.
A Word From Verywell
Trying to tell the difference between skin cancer or fungal infection is confusing.
Dont feel that you oughta be an expert in this situation.
If you are unsure what is causing your new skin growth or sore, see your dermatologist.
They will be able to closely examine your skin and perform a skin biopsy as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many skin conditions can be mistaken for cancer.
Skin infections sparked by fungus or bacteria may mimic signs of skin cancer.
If you have been treating a skin infection but do not notice an improvement, see your dermatologist.
Each case of skin cancer is unique, and its appearance will differ from person to person.
A hair follicle with a fungal infection may look like a pimple.
Fungal infections occur when the normal microbiome on the skin gets out of balance.
When the fungus on the skin overgrows, a fungal infection can develop.
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Dermatology Times.Fungal infections may mimic malignancies.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Cancer patients and fungal infections.
American Cancer Society.How to spot skin cancer.
MedlinePlus.Candida infection of the skin.
American Cancer Society.How to do a skin self-exam.
American Cancer Society.Microorganisms living on your skin may relate to skin cancer risk.
