Skin Cancer
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells that often develops from excessive sun exposure. It manifests as lesions that can appear in various forms, including moles, freckles, scaly patches, or open sores. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type, typically appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels. Squamous cell carcinoma often presents as a firm, scaly growth that may bleed or crust. Melanoma, while less common, is the most dangerous form of skin cancer and can spread to other parts of the body. It may appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole, often with irregular borders, multiple colors, and an asymmetrical shape.
Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for successful outcomes. Regular skin self-exams and professional skin cancer screenings are essential for identifying suspicious lesions at an early stage.
Treatment Overview
Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type, size, location, and stage of the cancer. Our experienced dermatologists will recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis.
Surgical removal is often the primary treatment for most skin cancers. This may involve simple excision, Mohs surgery, or electrosurgery. Mohs surgery is a highly precise technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer, maximizing the removal of cancerous tissue while preserving healthy skin.
Cryotherapy involves freezing the cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen, causing it to die and eventually fall off.
Topical medications may be used to treat certain types of skin cancer, such as actinic keratosis. These medications are applied directly to the skin to destroy abnormal cells.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used to treat skin cancers that cannot be completely removed through surgery or for those that have recurred.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used to treat advanced or metastatic skin cancer.
Immunotherapy helps your immune system fight cancer cells. It may be an option for certain types of advanced skin cancer.
Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth and survival. It may be used to treat advanced melanoma.
Skin Cancer
FAQs
Annual skin exams are recommended for everyone, especially those with a family history of skin cancer or excessive sun exposure.
Early signs can include changes in moles, new growths, sores that don't heal, and unusual pigmentation.
No, skin cancer is not contagious.
Protect your skin by limiting sun exposure, wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and avoiding tanning beds.
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