During a skin assessment of a patient of European descent, which finding requires attention as a possible skin change?

• A. Dry skin
• B. Loss of elasticity
• C. Change in a mole or lesion
• D. Senile lentigines

Answer: (C)

A changing mole or lesion is a red flag because it can signal malignant transformation, such as melanoma. When a nevus evolves—alterations in size, shape, color, border, or texture—it warrants prompt evaluation. People with European descent, who often have lighter skin, are at higher risk for melanoma, so vigilant assessment is especially important. Use the ABCDE approach to guide you: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter over about 6 mm, and Evolution of the lesion. If a change is noticed, document accurately, compare with any prior photos or measurements, and refer for further assessment or biopsy as indicated. In contrast, dry skin and age-related changes like senile lentigines are common benign findings and, by themselves, do not imply cancer. Loss of elasticity is a normal aging change and not typically a cancer concern unless it accompanies a suspicious lesion change. The key takeaway is that a mole or lesion that changes should be prioritized for medical evaluation.