2023-05-15 09:00:13
Image d’illustration — Timonina / Shutterstock.com
In the United States, a woman found she had a tiny spot under her eye. After several analyses, dermatologists concluded that it was the smallest skin cancer in the world. Explanations.
Christy Staats, the woman in question, explained that she had been aware of the presence of this stain for several years. However, due to the pandemic, she delayed medical tests. “During the Covid, I started to think a little more about my health. I have a magnifying mirror in my bathroom and noticed that the area I was worried about was much bigger. I made an appointment to have it examined. »
Measuring just 0.65 millimeters, this small spot on the patient’s cheek was described by a team of dermatologists from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) as “almost invisible to the human eye”. They were able to identify him using state-of-the-art non-invasive technology that allowed specialists to examine his skin without having to cut it.
Dermatologists have confirmed it to be melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer. Since then, Christy Staats has highlighted the importance of being able to access treatment, saying she was at “Right place at the right time with the right technology. If they can find mine when it’s so early, it’s obvious that this technology can help other people. It’s an important reminder that you don’t have to get lazy with your skin. You have to stay on top and get new things checked out. »
“With melanoma, your eyes really can be your best tool. A mole or spot on your skin that changes in appearance – size, shape, coloration – is a key indicator of melanoma”, said Sancy Leachman, chair of the department of dermatology at OHSU’s School of Medicine. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body. According to OHSU, it accounts for 1% of skin cancer cases, but causes the highest number of skin cancer deaths. In the UK, 2,341 people died from melanoma between 2017 and 2019.
1684143448
#Dermatologists #identify #worlds #smallest #cancer