Unexpected Skin Cancer Diagnosis: Woman Discovers ‘Hard Pimple’ Under Concealer
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers globally, but most people do not know that. In the United States alone, there are over three million cases of skin cancer yearly, making it one of the leading malignancies countrywide. Unfortunately, many people only seek medical intervention when the cancer is at an advanced stage, which makes it difficult to treat. Early diagnosis of skin cancer can significantly improve the chances of recovery. In this article, we will discuss the case of a woman who discovered she had skin cancer after mistaking a malignant mole for a pimple.
It all started with a ‘hard pimple’
Shannon Boccaccio, a businesswoman, and mother noticed a hard pimple under her concealer. She ignored it, thinking it was a normal pimple that would disappear with time. Despite being a cosmetologist, she did not think much of the pimple. However, the pimple refused to go away, and it started to grow and itch. She decided to seek treatment from a dermatologist.
The diagnosis
The dermatologist noted that the hard pimple was a malignant melanoma. Malignant melanoma is a form of skin cancer that forms in the melanin-producing cells of the skin. It is more aggressive than other forms of skin cancers and can quickly spread to other parts of the body. Fortunately, a biopsy confirmed that it was in the early stages and could be removed surgically.
The removal process
Ms. Boccaccio underwent surgery to remove the melanoma. The surgery included removing a small portion of skin around the melanoma to ensure all the cancer cells were gone. The whole area was then stitched up and dressed. She was advised not to use any makeup or concealers on the wound to avoid infecting the area.
The aftermath
The biopsy was later confirmed, and the malignant melanoma was completely removed, thanks to the early diagnosis of the disease. Shannon has since recovered and has become an advocate for early skin cancer screening. Her experience has taught her that it can happen to anyone, and it is essential to keep an eye on any strange skin bumps.
#skincancerawarenessmonth #melanomaawareness #earlydetection #skincancerscreening #cancersurvivor
Summary
Shannon Boccaccio, a businesswoman and mother, discovered she had skin cancer after mistaking a malignant mole for a pimple. After noticing a hard lump under her concealer, she sought medical attention from a dermatologist. The biopsy confirmed it was malignant melanoma in the early stages, and surgery to remove the cancerous growth was successful. Shannon is now an advocate for early skin cancer screening and is thankful for the early diagnosis that saved her life. #HEALTH