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1. Black or Dark Brown Dots with Irregular Borders
- These could indicate melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
- Unlike regular moles, melanoma spots tend to grow and change shape over time.
- They often have uneven color, combining shades of brown, black, red, or even blue.
2. Red or Pink Dots That Persist
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) often present as reddish, scaly patches or sores that don’t heal.
- These spots may appear shiny, crusted, or ulcerated.
- BCC and SCC are less aggressive than melanoma but still require prompt treatment to prevent further complications.
3. Clusters of Small Red or Purple Dots
- These may be signs of blood vessel issues or more serious conditions like leukemia or Kaposi’s sarcoma, a rare type of cancer often associated with weakened immune systems.
- If these dots appear suddenly and are accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue or easy bruising, immediate medical consultation is necessary.
4. Dark Dots Under the Nails
- A small black or brown spot under a fingernail or toenail that does not grow out with the nail could be a sign of subungual melanoma.
- This type of melanoma is often mistaken for a bruise but does not fade over time.
- If you notice a persistent dark mark under your nail, consult a dermatologist.
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