Currently, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It is the result of abnormal growth of skin cells. Just like cells that go awry in other areas of your body, internally, skin cells can also begin growing erratically. They can appear on any area of your body. If you suspect there is a problem with your skin, contact the Tuckermelanoma treatment specialists at Dermatology Specialists today.
Every day, cells in our bodies die and new ones are formed. Skin cells are no exception. Our DNA controls this process. When it does not work correctly because of damage to the DNA, new cells may form when they are not needed. Old cells may not die. A tumor may begin growing.
DNA damage to your skin is usually caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunlight, tanning beds, or lamps. There are other factors to consider, too. Fair-haired people, those with moles, and those with a weakened immune system have an increased risk of developing skin cancer. Heredity and age also play a part. If you suspect you have a problem with your skin, be sure to schedule a consultation with our Tucker melanoma skin cancer specialists.
You know your body better than anyone. Every little fold and crease are probably familiar to you. Symptoms of skin cancer can appear seemingly out of nowhere. For instance, a mole may suddenly look strange in color or texture. Any new or changed look to your face, neck, hands, arms, legs, ears, lips, or scalp should be taken seriously. Cancerous growths can appear anywhere.
Look out for:
· Firm red nodules
· Shiny firm bumps
· Crusted flat lesions
· Pearly or waxy bump
· Large brown spot with darker speckles
· Flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
· A mole that changes shape or color
There are three types of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer. It is found most often on the areas of your body exposed to the sun and rarely spreads elsewhere. Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common skin cancer found in people with dark skin and can begin in places not exposed to the sun. This type of cancer may spread to other parts of the body.
Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. It is less common than other skin cancers. It occurs in the skin’s melanocyte (pigment) cells and forms on any part of the body, whether it has been exposed to the sun or not. Most melanomas are black or brown in color.
A diagnosis of skin cancer is done through a biopsy. Once melanoma is detected, treatment options are determined by your medical dermatologist. We offer radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery (Mohs or simple removal).
If someone you know has been treated for melanoma cancer, their treatment plan may not be right for you. It is important for patients to speak with their doctors about which treatment for melanoma skin cancer is your best option.
When it comes to melanoma, surgery is generally the main treatment. The cancer is cut out and some of the normal skin surrounding it is excised as well. The area of healthy skin removed is determined by the size and location of the skin cancer. A typical melanoma removal procedure in Tucker is performed under local anesthesia in the dermatologist’s office.
Early stages of melanoma usually do well with surgery. The cure rate is relatively high. With more advanced cases of melanoma, other treatments are available, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy.
Everyone is at risk for skin cancer. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Wellness checks, using sunscreen, and limiting time in the direct sun or tanning beds will all help to lessen your risks. It is a fact that having more than five sunburns doubles your risk for melanoma, so sun safety is a must.
If you have been diagnosed with melanoma, you need a physician who is exceptionally qualified and experienced. At Dermatology Specialists, our team of medical and surgical clinicians will exceed your expectations. Our doctors are board-certified, and our Tucker melanoma treatment team has a dedication to patient care you won’t find elsewhere.
A Tucker melanoma cancer treatment plan can help give you peace of mind and will illustrate the best course of action moving forward. Keep in mind that melanomas are highly treatable. Our state-of-the-art, innovative techniques for treating all skin cancers are safe and effective. Our comprehensive, quality care is what we do every day for you and your skin. We offer advanced proven treatments and technology to maintain the health of your skin. Contact Dermatology Specialists today to talk to a specialist in melanoma skin cancer treatment in Tucker.
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