Skin cancer is at the top of the most prevalent types of cancer. It may cause lesions on your skin, which you may be tempted to ignore. The Magnolia Dermatology team offers cutting-edge diagnostic procedures and effective Cypress skin cancer treatments that slow the progression and eliminate the mass, giving you a second chance at life.
What should you know about skin cancer
Skin cancer refers to abnormal growth that develops due to prolonged exposure to the sun. However, this form of cancer can also develop in areas not usually exposed to the sun. Mutations in your DNA can also trigger abnormal cell growth leading to a mass of cancerous cells.
The most prevalent forms of cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, and basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancer can affect anyone regardless of age, sex or ethnicity. Constantly monitoring your skin for any abnormal changes can help detect skin cancer in its early stages. There is a higher chance of treatment success at this point than when it is in its advanced stages.
What signs and symptoms indicate skin cancer
The first signs of skin cancer often manifest on your arms, face, neck, lips, chest, and scalp. But it can also develop in hidden areas beneath your toenails and fingernails, genital area, and palm. Individuals with dark skin tones are more likely to experience the firsts in parts rarely exposed to the sun, such as the palm. Each type of skin cancer has unique signs and symptoms that vary depending on severity.
Basal cell carcinoma
This form of cancer manifests itself in the form of tiny, pink bumps on your skin surface. Being the most prevalent type of skin cancer, BCC most affects individuals with light skin complexion. This aggressive cancer can also cause a recurrent scabbing or bleeding sore.
Squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is a rare form but commonly occurs in adults. The lesions may look like a scaly sore on your back, ears, face, or neck. Although more prevalent in light-skin individuals, it can also affect people with dark skin tones. While this type of cancer is aggressive, it rarely causes life-threatening complications.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most aggressive and life-threatening skin cancer that develops rapidly and may cause life-threatening complications within a short period. This disorder may occur on normal skin or in an existing mole that was initially non cancerous. The tell-tale signs of melanoma are dark lesions on your toes or finger tips, painful lesions with a burning sensation, and a mole that changes size or color.
Is there a treatment for skin cancer
During your appointment, Dr. Robare examines your skin and conducts a skin biopsy which helps in identifying the type of skin cancer you have. After diagnosis, she recommends treatment according to the location and severity of cancer. She may suggest the following treatments: photodynamic therapy, surgical excision, cryotherapy, Mohs surgery, curettage, and electrodesiccation.
To explore the available treatments for skin cancer, call Dr. Robare or click on the scheduling tool to create an appointment today.
