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See also cancers of the mouth and face;
skin cancer: melanoma
Which benign skin lesions do you treat in Oral Surgery?
There are many benign skin lesions and at Addenbrooke's these
might be assessed by the Departments of Oral and Maxillofacial
Surgery or Dermatology.
You might receive your treatment and care in Oral and Maxillofacial
Surgery if the lesion involves some of the mouth and facial structures
or if you are receiving other treatment from this Department.
What are naevi?
Naevi are a medical term for skin moles. They are often darker
than the surrounding skin (eg brown or brown-black) because they
contain more-pigmented (melanin-containing) cells. They are very
common and benign (not cancers). Some people want to have them
removed for cosmetic reasons. Rarely, some moles can develop into
malignant melanomas - especially
when they are exposed to high-levels of sunlight/sunburn. For
this reason, some people prefer to have them removed. It is a
good idea to keep an eye on your moles (and skin in general) looking
for the following changes:
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Recent increase in size;
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Ulceration;
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Bleeding;
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Change in colour
If you notice any of these changes, don't panic. Go to see your
GP (or dentist, if it is on your face or mouth) who will be able
to refer you to a specialist if necessary.
How to stay safe in the sun
What is a capillary haemangioma?
Some capillary haemangioma are called strawberry birthmarks.
They are usually present at birth and some increase or decrease
in size as the baby/child develops. They are pink or red-purple
in colour because they consist of enlarged blood vessels. They
are usually harmless but some people want them to be treated for
cosmetic reasons or because they press on other areas. Because
they have a high blood supply they can complicate surgery to the
area eg if they extend into the mouth.
What are squamous-cell papillomas?
Squamous cell papillomas are benign skin swellings that often
appear with some (melanin) pigment. They are like a wart.
What are skin warts?
Skin warts are overgrowths of skin to produce a lump, which
might be cauliflower-like. They are very common, especially in
school children and can spread to form 'crops' especially on the
fingers. On the feet, they are called verrucas and tend to grow
inwards.
The wart is caused by a reaction of the skin to a local wart
virus infection. Treatment by doctors involves killing the viruses
using either extreme cold or gentle acids.
You can treat most skin warts yourself with over-the-counter
preparations (do follow the instructions carefully). If the wart
doesn't respond to this simple treatment or is on your face (or
genitals), you should seek advice and treatment via your GP.
What is seborrhoeic keratosis?
This is also known as senile keratosis because it is usually
seen in the more senior patient. They are benign and appear as
yellowish or brown raised lumps. More than one of them are often
found on the face, arms or torso.
What are fibromas of the skin?
These are benign, raised swellings that are seen in association
with chronic trauma
What are keratoacanthoma?
A keratoacanthoma is a rapidly growing lesion of the skin. Although
it is usually considered benign, it can mimic the appearance and
behaviour of a malignant skin ulcer. Most doctors will want to
at least sample it to make sure that it isn't anything more serious.
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