Learning you have skin cancer is stressful, but you should know that there are advanced skin cancer treatments that can deliver outstanding results. Cary L. Dunn, MD, Janet Delaney, MSN, ARNP-BC, Shauntell Solomon, DO, Cynthia Spencer, APRN-BC, Sissy Ceravolo, PA-C, and Phyllis Skolnik, MD, offer skin cancer treatment at locations including Arcadia, Bradenton, Homestead, Miami, Longboat Key, North Point, Sarasota, and Venice, Florida, as well as Midwest City, Oklahoma. Book a visit online or by phone to get started.
Skin cancer develops when damaged DNA triggers mutations that prompt your body to produce malignant tumors. Below are the three most common types of skin cancer:
This most common form of skin cancer develops in the outermost layers of skin, often on the face, shoulders, and scalp. Slow-growing, it can cause localized skin damage and can spread if left untreated.
Squamous cell carcinoma develops cumulatively, often following long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays. Some forms develop rapidly, threatening overall health.
An aggressive and dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma can appear anywhere on your body. Treatable when detected early, melanoma can also be fatal.
Determining which type of skin cancer you’re dealing with is the first step in crafting a customized treatment plan.
There are multiple ways to treat skin cancer, most of which focus on removing cancerous lesions and preventing the spread of abnormal cell growth.
Excision involves using a scalpel or other device to cut away cancerous lesions. Some procedures require suturing to close the wound, while others can heal without stitches.
Cryotherapy involves using liquid nitrogen to create frigid temperatures that freeze cancerous cells. This kills targeted cells, and the treated skin will scab over and flake away after treatment.
This surgical procedure involves removing a thin layer of tissue, checking that tissue microscopically to determine if cancerous cells are present, and repeating until your practitioner reaches a layer of healthy tissue.
During your consultation, your physician discusses which treatment path is the best fit for your needs.
One of the best ways to reduce your risk of future skin cancer is to embrace daily sun protection. Apply sunscreen daily, and try to limit the amount of time you spend in the sun.
Having a professional evaluate your skin for signs of concern is key in detecting cancer in the earliest possible stages. Dermatological skin checks are fast, simple, and painless.
When you’re ready to learn more, booking a visit is as easy as calling the office or booking online.