Skin Cancer Specialist

What Symptoms Do Skin Cancers Cause?

Skin cancer typically causes changes in the color or texture of the skin, including rough patches and discolored patches or mole-like growths. Some cancerous growths may be weepy or change in size, shape or color over time. Because different types of skin cancer can cause different signs and symptoms, it's extremely important to have any suspicious area of skin or unusual change in skin evaluated by a dermatologist as soon as possible to determine if it's cancerous or benign (non-cancerous).

What are the Types of Skin Cancer?

There are three types of skin cancer:

• Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, occurring in about 80 to 85 percent of all skin cancer cases.
• The second most common type is squamous cell skin cancer, which accounts for about 10 percent of all skin cancers.
• Melanoma is the deadliest and rarest type, accounting for less than 1 percent of all skin cancers, but causing the majority of skin cancer-related deaths.

All three types of cancer can cause different skin symptoms. Melanoma most commonly resembles an unusual-looking mole.

What is a Skin Cancer Screening?

A skin cancer screening is a head-to-toe evaluation of the skin designed to identify skin cancers in their earliest stages, when treatment typically is simpler and more effective. During the screening, the dermatologist will check every area of skin, including under the fingernails and toenails and areas that do not receive sun exposure. Skin cancer screenings should be performed every year to look for early signs of skin cancer. More frequent screenings may be needed for those with a personal or family history of skin cancer or other risk factors. Screenings are fast, painless and noninvasive. It's also important to contact the office at the first sign of any unusual change in the skin, including the development of new moles or freckles.

How is Skin Cancer Treated?

That depends on the type of cancer and the stage of the disease. Most cancers are removed surgically. Melanoma may require chemotherapy or radiation therapy to prevent the cancer from spreading or recurring.