Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It develops when abnormal cells grow out of control in the outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis. While there are several types of skin cancer, the good news is that most are highly treatable, especially when detected early. The dermatologists at Calkin & Boudreaux are experts in diagnosing all types of skin cancer and providing you with the necessary treatment.
What Is Skin Cancer?
There are three main types of skin cancer:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically appears as a pearly or waxy bump on the skin, often on sun-exposed areas.
It grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cell carcinoma often appears as a red, scaly patch on the skin. It can also develop as a wart-like growth.
Squamous cell carcinoma is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the least common but most serious type of skin cancer. It can appear anywhere on the body and can take on many different shapes and colors.
It’s crucial to be aware of the signs of melanoma for early detection. Learn more about the warning signs of melanoma in our article, “3 Warning Signs of Melanoma Dermatologists Wish You Knew and Didn’t Ignore“.
Diagnosing Skin Cancer
If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, it’s essential to see a dermatologist at Calkin & Boudreaux. During a skin exam, a dermatologist will examine your skin for any suspicious spots.
They may also use a tool called a dermatoscope, which provides a magnified view of the skin to help identify abnormalities. If a suspicious spot is found, a biopsy may be necessary.
A biopsy involves removing a small skin sample and examining it under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present.
Treating Skin Cancer
The treatment for skin cancer depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer. Standard treatment options include:
Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for skin cancer. Your dermatologist will remove the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure all cancer cells are removed.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is a specialized procedure used for certain types of skin cancer, particularly basal cell carcinoma. Mohs surgery removes the cancer cells one layer at a time, allowing your provider to examine the tissue under a microscope immediately to ensure complete removal. It’s a preferred treatment when the cancer is on the face, ears, or anywhere that there is not much extra skin or minimizing scarring is most important. Learn more about Mohs Surgery in this article “What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?”.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy treatment uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells.
Topical Medications
Your dermatologist may prescribe topical medications like creams or lotions to treat certain precancerous lesions.
Recovering after Skin Cancer
Following skin cancer treatment at Calkin & Boudreaux, your dermatologist will provide specific instructions on caring for the treated area and monitor for any signs of recurrence. While the recovery process varies depending on the type and extent of treatment, most people experience minimal side effects.
However, emotional recovery is also essential. Don’t hesitate to discuss any anxieties or concerns you may have with your dermatologist or a therapist.
Early detection is critical to successful skin cancer treatment. If you notice any changes in your skin, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Calkin & Boudreaux in Sacramento, CA, to get it checked promptly. Our team at Calkin & Boudreaux is committed to providing you with the support and services you need throughout your skin health journey.