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The nurse is assessing the integumentary system of a dark-skinned individual. Which area would be the most likely to show a skin cancer lesion?

Chest
Arms
Face
Palms

User Miqe
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The palms are the most likely area for skin cancer lesions in dark-skinned individuals, due to the occurrence of cancer in areas not commonly exposed to sun. Signs of skin cancer include asymmetry, irregular borders, and varied color, as per the ABCD mnemonic for melanoma detection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely area to show a skin cancer lesion in a dark-skinned individual would be the palms.

Skin cancer in people with dark skin most frequently develops in areas not commonly exposed to the sun, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or under nails. While UV rays are the main cause of skin cancer in individuals with lighter skin, other factors like genetics can play a significant role in dark-skinned populations, hence the occurrence in less sun-exposed areas. It's also important to recognize signs of skin cancer, which include asymmetrical moles, irregular borders, variable color, and a large diameter. These characteristics are part of the ABCD (Asymmetry, Borders, Color, Diameter) mnemonic for detecting melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer.

Monitor the skin regularly for any unusual changes, especially in areas that one might not consider at risk due to lower sun exposure. A new or changing lesion on the palms, soles, or nails in a dark-skinned individual warrants a medical evaluation for potential skin cancer.

User William Denniss
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