Skin Cancer Care

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Skin cancer can develop in different ways, but spotting signs early is key to effective treatment. Learn about the symptoms, types and treatment options available to support your health and well-being.

Understanding skin cancer and its different forms is the first step in prevention and early detection.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow in unusual ways, often from too much exposure to UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors like skin type, sun exposure history and family history may increase your risk.

Types of skin cancer

There are several types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, each presenting unique symptoms and risks.

Basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of skin cancer and often appears as a pearly bump or patch of skin. It usually develops on areas frequently exposed to the sun.
Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma may present as a rough, scaly patch or red bump. This type of skin cancer is slightly more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma.
Melanoma: Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, often resembling a mole that changes in size, color or shape. If not caught early, it can reach other areas, affecting overall well-being.
Actinic keratosis: This precancerous condition causes rough, dry patches of skin and can develop into squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.

Causes and symptoms of skin cancer

Early detection of skin cancer often leads to more effective treatment. Here are some common symptoms and causes to watch for:

Causes:

Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds
A history of sunburns, especially during childhood
Having a fair complexion, light hair and light-colored eyes
A family or personal history of skin cancer
Weakened immune system or exposure to harmful chemicals

Symptoms:

A new growth, bump or nodule on the skin
A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps coming back
A mole or spot that changes in size, shape or color
Scaly, red patches or rough, crusted areas

Diagnosing skin cancer

Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial in managing skin cancer. Our healthcare team uses innovative tools to spot and assess unusual skin changes, including:

Skin examination: A thorough visual check of the skin to identify unusual moles or spots.
Dermatoscopy: A specialized tool used to magnify and assess skin lesions for signs of cancer.
Skin biopsy: Removing a small sample of the suspicious area for further examination under a microscope.
Imaging tests: In advanced cases, imaging like PET scans, CT scans or MRIs is used to determine if the cancer has spread.

The Importance of skin cancer self-checks

Regular self-checks are an essential part of catching potential skin cancer in its earliest stages. By knowing what to look for and monitoring changes in your skin, you can take control of your health and seek care when necessary.

One effective way to examine your skin is by using the ABCDE method for identifying melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Asymmetry: If one half of a mole or spot does not match the other half, it could be a warning sign of melanoma. Healthy moles are typically symmetrical, meaning both sides look the same.
Border: Check the edges of your mole or spot. Melanomas often have irregular, blurred or jagged borders, unlike benign (non-cancerous) moles that usually have smooth, even edges.
Color: A mole with multiple colors, such as shades of brown, black, white, red or blue, can be a sign of melanoma. Most benign moles are a single, uniform color.
Diameter: While melanomas can be smaller, they are often larger than 6 millimeters (about the size of a pencil eraser). Keep an eye on any spot that is growing or changing in size.
Evolving: A mole or spot that changes in size, shape, color or texture, or that begins to bleed or itch, should be checked by a healthcare professional.

By performing self-checks monthly, you can monitor your skin for new or changing spots. Use a mirror and good lighting to inspect your entire body, including hard-to-see areas like your scalp, back and the soles of your feet.

If you notice anything unusual, schedule an appointment a dermatologist. Skin cancer is treatable when detected early, and self-checks are a simple, effective way to prioritize your health.

Treatment for skin cancer

Early, personalized treatment is crucial for effectively treating skin cancer and improving outcomes. Your treatment plan depends on cancer type, stage and location. Options include:

Surgical removal: Surgery removes cancerous tissue with precision.
MOHS surgery: A precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer by removing thin layers of tissue and examining them under a microscope until only healthy tissue remains. It offers high success rates while preserving as much healthy skin as possible.
Radiation therapy: Targeted radiation destroys cancer cells when surgery isn’t possible or for hard-to-reach areas.
Topical treatments: Prescription creams and ointments eliminate certain skin cancers by directly attacking abnormal cells.
Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen freezes and destroys precancerous lesions like actinic keratosis in a quick, office-based procedure.
Immunotherapy: This therapy boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight advanced melanoma with cutting-edge immunotherapy treatments.
Chemotherapy: Systemic chemotherapy targets cancer cells throughout the body when skin cancer has spread beyond the original site.