Skin cancer includes several types of cancer that develop in the skin. Changes in moles, new growths, persistent sores, or unusual patches may need evaluation, but skin cancer cannot be diagnosed by appearance alone.
Steele Creek Dermatology provides medical dermatology procedures for the evaluation and treatment of suspicious skin changes. Becoming familiar with your skin and knowing what changes to watch for can also help you recognize when it is time to schedule an examination.
COMMON TYPES OF SKIN CANCER
- Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma develops in the basal cells of the skin and commonly appears on areas that receive frequent sun exposure. It often grows slowly, but treatment is still important to prevent further damage to surrounding tissue.
- Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the squamous cells that make up the outer portions of the skin. It may appear as a firm bump, rough or scaly patch, persistent sore, or growth that does not heal. If left untreated, some squamous cell carcinomas can grow deeper into the skin or spread.
- Melanoma
Melanoma develops in the melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin. It can appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole's size, shape, color, or texture, and is often identified using the ABCDE warning signs (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving appearance). Melanoma is less common than basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma, but it is more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early, making routine skin checks and prompt evaluation of suspicious moles essential.
Understanding the signs and types of skin cancer can help you know when a change should be evaluated.
HOW IS SKIN CANCER DIAGNOSED?
Your provider will examine the area of concern and may use a dermoscope to view the skin more closely. If the area could be cancerous, a biopsy may be performed by removing part or all of the lesion for examination.
A biopsy determines whether the tissue is benign or cancerous and helps identify the type of skin cancer. Not every suspicious lesion or biopsy results in a skin cancer diagnosis.
Regular skin monitoring is also important. Knowing how often skin cancer testing may be appropriate can help you discuss screening needs with your provider.
Treatment depends on the type of skin cancer, its location, how aggressive it is, and whether it has spread. Your provider will review the diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment approach.
SKIN CANCER REMOVAL OPTIONS
- Excision removes the skin cancer along with a margin of surrounding skin.
- Mohs surgery removes skin cancer one layer at a time, with each layer examined under a microscope until no cancer cells remain.
- Curettage and electrodesiccation may be used for certain small basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. The growth is scraped away with a curette, and the area is treated with electrosurgery.
The appropriate treatment is determined individually based on the diagnosis, location, and other clinical factors.
THE TREATMENTS BELOW CAN HELP WITH SKIN CANCER:
view all