Skin cancer is very common in the United States and increasing by epidemic proportions. One out of five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime and 3.5 million new cases are diagnosed each year.
Ultraviolet light from the sun and/or tanning beds causes skin cancer. People with fair skin, light hair, or light eyes, those who have had frequent sun exposure and/or numerous sunburns are at risk. Those who have had even one skin cancer are already at a much higher risk for developing future skin cancers.
Early Detection is key. Skin cancer is easier to treat if caught early and may be life saving with melanomas. Click for more info on early detection.
Sunscreens/Sunblocks can greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer. Protect your skin from harmful rays by using sun precautions and protective clothing. Click for more info on sun protection.
Types of Skin Cancer
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Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for nearly 80% annually. It is the most rapidly increasing form of cancer in the United States, affecting approximately 2.8 million Americans in 2010.
Things to look for include: a sore that won't heal and/or chronic bleeding with slight trauma. BCC's can appear as a pearly, shiny bump or a red, rough patch. Caution- they are often mistaken for pimples, cysts and rashes.
Basal cell carcinoma does not usually metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated the cancer can become very large and/or spread to areas nearby, causing devastating localized damage. Remember- basal cell carcinomas can be very subtle. Regular skin examinations annually by a Dermatologist can be beneficial to finding these cancers early.
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Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for nearly 16% of skin cancers annually. In 2010, there were approximately 700,000 newly diagnosed cases.
Things to look for include: a persistent scaling patch or a rough bump. SCC's can appear as wart-like growths that crust and bleed.
SCC can arise from precancers or actinic keratoses. Actinic keratoses are red, rough, scaly, slightly raised growths. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, in a small percentage of cases, squamous cell carcinomas can metastasize to the lymph nodes or blood stream, and may even be fatal. Generally, risk of metastasis is associated with recurrent (previously treated) tumors and/or large, aggressive tumors in high risk locations such as the scalp, ear and lips.
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Melanoma
Melanoma is the least common, but most deadly form of skin cancer. In 2009, there were nearly 69,000 newly diagnosed cases, which accounts for about 5% of all skin cancers. If it is caught early, melanoma has an excellent cure rate and outstanding prognosis.
Things to look for include: melanoma develops from pigment cells called melanocytes, which give us our skin color. Because melanomas produce pigment, these tumors often appear as black and brown. They can develop in an existing mole which begins to change in shape and color. They can also start on normal skin and look like a new mole that continues to change and grow. Melanomas can occur anywhere, even in sun protected areas, and can affect any age. In fact, melanoma is the most common cancer in persons ages 25-29 years old.
Melanoma is much more likely to metastasize than other skin cancers, but if caught early (before spread), the cure rate is high. Someone with a personal or family history of melanoma is more likely to develop a melanoma. The prognosis of melanoma depends on the thickness (or depth), which is determined by the pathologist using the Breslow's depth scale. This information helps the surgeon determine the best treatment.
IMPORTANT! Use the ABCDE's of melanoma to help distinguish a regular mole from melanoma:
- A = Asymmetry: One half of the spot does not match the other half.
- B = Border: An irregular, uneven, ragged or poorly defined border.
- C = Color: Several colors of brown, black, red, white or blue or irregular pattern of color.
- D = Diameter: Usually greater than 6mm (size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.
- E = Evolving: Mole or skin lesion that looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color.
If you notice a spot that is different from others, or that changes, itches or bleeds, you should make an appointment to see a dermatologist.
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Skin Cancer Screenings
Regular skin exams are a critical part of preventive care. Our team performs thorough skin cancer screenings and provides guidance on sun protection, mole monitoring, and lifestyle practices to minimize your risk. We provide comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment appropriate to each patient's condition. To help you make the most of your dermatology appointment, here are a few tips on how to prepare for and what to expect during a routine skin cancer screening.
- Before the exam: Take a look at your skin. Make note of any new, changing, itching or bleeding moles, growths or other lesions. Remove all nail polish from fingernails and toenails. We need to look at your nails and nail beds, since skin cancers can form there. Also, it is important to remove all makeup. Makeup can hide small skin cancers and prevent early detection. Since the scalp may be examined, please remove any wigs or hairpieces.
- At the exam: You will be asked to disrobe for the examination. We will closely examine any moles or growths you noted during your skin exam. We may biopsy any suspicious-looking growths. If you have never evaluated your skin, we will explain how to do so and what to look for. It is important not to overlook certain areas like the scalp, between the toes, and the soles of the feet. Since this exam is focused on screening for skin cancers, addressing other conditions you may have will most likely be addressed in a separate visit.
FREE RESOURCES TO LEARN HOW TO SPOT SKIN CANCER
Expertise You Can Trust
Early diagnosis and effective treatment are essential to managing skin conditions. Our dermatologists use the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based therapies to deliver the best possible outcomes. We take time to listen, evaluate, and tailor care plans to your specific needs.
Schedule Your Visit
If you’re experiencing discomfort, irritation, or changes in your skin, please don’t wait—schedule an appointment with one of our board certified dermatologists at our Shrader Road location to get expert answers—and lasting relief.
Educational Videos
Online Resources
Visit the online resources listed below for more information on taking care of your skin, preventing skin cancer, early detection and the specific treatments available for the different types of skin cancer.
