If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, you will be one of millions in the US to be diagnosed each year. Fortunately, most skin cancers are easy to treat when spotted before they become a problem. Knowing some possible signs of skin cancer can help protect you, but we also recommend skin cancer screenings with our skin health experts.Â
Skin cancer can appear in many different forms. Basal cell carcinoma, the most common type, often appears as a pink, pearly, or flesh-colored bump. Squamous cell carcinoma can look like a red bump, patch of scaly or rough skin, or sore that keeps coming back. These types of skin cancer do not usually spread, but they can grow large enough to damage nerves and even bones.Â
Melanoma is the most risky form of skin cancer. The cells involved are pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. These cells often cluster into patches called moles. Any mole that fits the categories below should be examined by a skin cancer specialist:
A – the mole has an asymmetrical border
B – the mole’s borders are uneven
C – the mole has several colors or a patchy appearance
D – the mole is larger than 6mm
E – the mole is evolving or changing over time
Moles that show these signs should be checked. Melanoma is dangerous if ignored but very treatable if caught early.
We recommend skin cancer screenings yearly for everyone, but some people are at higher risk than others. Your risk for skin cancer is elevated if you meet any of these criteria:
During a skin cancer screening, your expert will examine all areas of your skin, including areas you may have trouble checking by yourself. If they see anything concerning, they will often recommend a biopsy (sample for examination).Â
If a biopsy reveals cancerous cells, the next step is determining the stage of the cancer. Many early skin cancers can be removed with simple excision. Others often respond well to radiation therapy that can precisely target skin cancer. Skin cancer that spreads may be treated with chemotherapy or immunotherapy.Â
Do you have questions about skin cancer? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page.
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