How to Assess and Document New or Changing Skin Growths

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

How to assess a new skin lesion?

Start with a structured visual and tactile examination. Note the lesion’s size, shape, color, border regularity, elevation, and any associated symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or pain. Compare the growth to nearby skin and to the patient’s other existing pigmented spots. Pay attention to pigmentation changes—new dark areas, uneven tones, or sudden lightening can be relevant. Use consistent lighting and a neutral background when photographing lesions to reduce visual distortion.

Use the ABCDE approach as a simple checklist: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over 6 mm, and Evolution over time. This shorthand supports communication with dermatology specialists and helps prioritize lesions that need prompt evaluation. Record whether the lesion is raised or flat and whether it feels firm or soft to the touch.

When should you seek dermatology consultation or telemedicine?

Seek a dermatology consultation when a lesion shows rapid change, bleeding, non-healing ulceration, recurrent crusting, or unexplained pain. Telemedicine can be an efficient first step for triage: many dermatologists review photos and brief histories to advise on urgency or next steps. Include multiple high-quality images—distant, medium, and close-up—with a ruler or coin for scale when using telemedicine services.

Local services may offer in-person or virtual consultations; choose an option that permits follow-up imaging and clear communication of biopsy or excision recommendations. If a dermatologist requests an in-person exam after a telemedicine review, prioritize that appointment for suspected malignancy or ambiguous findings.

What role do biopsy and excision play in diagnosis?

Biopsy and excision are diagnostic and sometimes therapeutic steps in dermatology. A shave or punch biopsy removes a small portion of tissue for histopathology, which helps determine whether a lesion is benign, atypical, or malignant. Excision removes the entire lesion with a margin of normal skin and can serve as both diagnosis and treatment when malignancy is suspected or confirmed.

Discuss with your clinician the type of biopsy recommended, expected healing time, and how the specimen will be handled. Histology results guide further care, such as wider excision or surveillance. Always document biopsy site, method, and pathology results in your records for future reference.

What are cryotherapy and laser options for growths?

Cryotherapy and laser treatments are commonly used for specific benign lesions. Cryotherapy applies controlled freezing (typically liquid nitrogen) to treat superficial growths like certain warts or benign keratoses. Laser treatments can target vascular lesions or pigmentation and are used selectively for cosmetic or functional concerns. Both modalities vary by lesion type and provider expertise.

Discuss potential effects on pigmentation and texture: treated areas may temporarily or permanently alter pigmentation, and multiple sessions may be needed. Providers will explain risks like blistering, infection, or scarring and advise on expected healing timelines.

How to document changes and use monitoring tools?

Consistent documentation is essential for monitoring. Maintain a dated photo log with scale and consistent angles; record symptom changes and any interventions (medication, cryotherapy, laser, biopsy, excision). Note the clinician seen, recommendations given, and any pathology summaries. Many people use secure photo folders or dedicated dermatology apps that support chronological review and export for consultations.

Monitoring includes scheduled rechecks—often every three to twelve months depending on risk factors—and prompt reassessment for new symptoms. Telemedicine can facilitate interim reviews when travel or clinic access is limited, but suspicious changes often require in-person assessment.

How to manage healing, scar care, aftercare and sun protection?

After procedures such as biopsy, excision, cryotherapy, or laser, follow aftercare guidance closely. Keep wounds clean, apply recommended ointments, and change dressings per instructions to reduce infection risk. Expect some redness, tenderness, and swelling; healing timelines vary by procedure and individual factors. Scar outcomes can be influenced by technique, wound care, and individual healing tendencies.

Sun protection is critical to minimize pigmentation changes and support optimal healing. Use broad-spectrum sun protection, protective clothing, and limit sun exposure to treated areas. If pigmentation changes occur, discuss options with a dermatologist; some approaches can improve uneven tone but results vary.

Conclusion

Assessing and documenting new or changing skin growths relies on clear observation, systematic recording, and timely consultation. Use structured descriptions, dated photographs, and consistent monitoring to support clinicians in diagnosis and follow-up. When in doubt, arrange prompt dermatology review—whether in person or via telemedicine—to determine whether biopsy, excision, or other treatments are indicated. Regular sun protection and proper aftercare help support healing and reduce pigmentation or scar-related concerns.