I have what appears to be a wart under my left arm. In recent weeks has become sensitive and appears to have turned very dark in color. What is it?
It is probably not a wart. It could be some kind of growth, pimple, skin condition, irritation or an ingrown hair. Or it could be skin cancer. The chances of a cure for skin cancer are extremely high if it is detected and treated early. This is even true for the most dangerous kind, malignant melanoma.
You should make a speedy appointment with a dermatologist, because growths that change in any way, including color, should be checked.
I do not mean to frighten you. The odds are stacked overwhelmingly in your favor. It may not be skin cancer at all, and if it is, the vast majority of skin cancers are non-melanomas. Most are basal cell carcinomas, which are rarely life-threatening.
You can consider this a wake-up call to learn the A-B-C-Ds of skin cancer and to perform regular skin checks for new growths and changes.
Depending on your age, skin type and history of sun exposure, an annual skin check by a dermatologist also may be a good idea.