What You Should Know About Skin Cancer

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that affects the skin and can be deadly if left untreated. It occurs when abnormal cells in your skin begin to grow uncontrollably, forming tumors or lesions. There are different types of Coupeville skin cancer.

Types of cancer

These are some of the different skin cancers; Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common type of skin cancer. They often appear as firm, red nodules and can become ulcerated or scaly. Basal cell carcinomas are usually found on areas of sun-exposed skin and have a waxy, translucent appearance. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and is generally caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It can appear as a black or brown spot that changes in size, shape, or color over time.

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of skin cancer so you can take action if you notice anything unusual on your skin. These include new spots or moles, itchy or painful areas, or sores that don’t heal. You should also check your skin regularly for changes and see a doctor if you notice anything different or unusual. If caught early, most skin cancers can be treated successfully.

What to expect when you visit a doctor for a skin cancer screening

Your doctor will likely perform a thorough physical exam to check for any suspicious moles or spots. They may also use a magnifying lens or special lighting or take pictures of the affected area to track changes over time.

Once they have identified an area of concern, they may remove it and send it to a lab for analysis. They may recommend further treatment, such as medication or surgery, depending on the results. In some cases, radiation or chemotherapy may also be recommended.

Early detection is key to skin cancer and regular checkups are essential in helping to detect any changes or abnormalities before they become more serious.

Skin cancer treatment options

These are some of the treatment options:

Surgery

This option involves the removal of the cancerous cells. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, a doctor may do this in an operating room or their office. The procedure entails removing the tumor and a healthy skin margin to ensure all cancerous cells are gone.

Radiation therapy

High-energy X-rays or other types of radiation are used in this type of treatment to eradicate cancer cells. Radiation can be administered outside of a hospital setting and typically lasts several weeks.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is usually used for more advanced skin cancers that have spread beyond the skin. The medicines are either taken orally or applied directly to the area of concern.

Targeted therapy

This type of cancer treatment targets specific molecules involved in cell growth and reproduction and blocks their ability to grow. This form of therapy is often used for more advanced skin cancers.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. It is used more often for advanced skin cancers but can also be used in early-stage skin cancers.

If you have any concerns about your skin, book an appointment with your doctor at Island Aesthetics & Dermatology.