Overview

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer with more new cases occurring than combined incidences of prostate, breast, lung, and colon cancer each year. Cancer occurs when normal cells undergo transformation and grow and multiply without normal controls. Skin cancers are generally curable if caught early. However, people who have had skin cancer are at a higher risk of developing a new skin cancer. That is why it is imperative for regular self-examination and doctor visits for an early diagnosis to be made. People with light skin who sunburn easily are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer but any skin color or race is susceptible to the condition.

Skin Cancer Screening

It is imperative to have a full body skin examination performed by a dermatology provider every year to screen for skin cancers. Getting screened is now more important than ever, the number of skin cancer cases in the U.S. is growing at an alarming rate.

For self-examination, use the ABCDE guide to spot melanoma or other skin cancers:

• Asymmetry: If one half of the mole does not match the other half
• Border: Irregular, notched or scalloped borders
• Color: Is not the same throughout, or it has different shades such as tan, brown, black, blue, white or red.
• Diameter: The diameter is larger than the size of a pencil eraser
• Evolution: If the mole changes over time

What are the different types of Skin Cancer?

There are three major types of skin cancer:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) - The most common type of skin cancer. BCC often looks like a flesh-colored, shiny pearl-like bump or a pinkish patch of skin.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) - Second most common type of skin cancer. SCC often looks like a red firm bump, scaly patch, or a sore that heals and reopens.
• Melanoma - A highly aggressive cancer that tends to spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma frequently develops in a mole or suddenly appears as a new dark spot on the skin. This is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical.

Skin Cancer Prevention

Some tips for skin cancer prevention:

• Avoid sun tanning and tanning beds
• Do not burn
• Use sunscreen
• Wear sun protective clothing
• Watch for the UV Index

Skin Cancer Treatment

The treatment options for skin cancer and the precancerous skin lesions known as actinic keratoses will vary, depending on the type, size, severity, and location of the lesions. When deciding on skin cancer treatment, our providers will assist by evaluating all of the options available and assembling a treatment plan based on a patient’s individual circumstances. Treatment options consists of:

• Mohs surgery
• Freezing
• Excisional surgery
• Cryotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• Topical Chemotherapy
• Photodynamic therapy
• Biological therapy

If you are concerned about a spot you currently have or have any questions about a diagnosis of skin cancer, please call our offices for an appointment.