Skin cancer is on the rise in epidemic proportions. As patients are becoming more aware of the dangers of skin cancer, we as dermatologists are diagnosing these cancers more frequently.
Dangers of Skin Cancer – Every race, every age is at risk. The three most common types of skin cancer is order of frequency include: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.
Basal cell and squamous cell usually present as pink/red, rough of scaly lesions that are not healing in usual sun exposed areas.
Melanomas can have a number of colors, brown, black, blue, red and even white anywhere on the body. It is extremely important to check our skin for any of these types of lesions. Any changes in growth, healing, symptoms such as pain, bleeding or itching should alert the patient to seek evaluation of that spot. Each patient should have an annual skin exam by a board certified dermatologist.
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma standardly diagnosed with a skin biopsy and are cured by surgical removal.
The most comprehensive and secure way to remove them on cosmetically important areas such as the head and neck is Mohs Micrographic Surgery. This procedure was pioneered by renowned dermatologist, Fredrerick Mohs and has evolved into the gold standard for skin cancer removal. It is done by dermatologists especially trained in this important procedure. We have performed thousands of these procedures over years and we continue to service our community. Melanomas are removed surgically if diagnosed early and survival rates are close to 100% .
If detected late, and the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, survival rates decrease dramatically. There are numerous chemotherapy protocols that are used for lesions that have spread depending on the patient’s individual case.
Remember, the most important service you can do for your skin with regards to cancer is prevention. Aside from your regular dermatological exam, daily sunscreen use is vital. Use it frequently and plentiful. It is by far the greatest single tool you can use to help your skin. The added benefit is wrinkle prevention as 90% of a persons wrinkles are caused from UV exposure.