Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, yet it is also one of the most treatable. A dermatologist can be a tremendous asset in diagnosing and treating skin cancer – they are experts on the subject and they have access to a wide range of treatments to help you successfully fight off this disease. In this blog, we will discuss how dermatologists can help diagnose and treat skin cancer, including Mohs surgery.
What Is Skin Cancer?
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control on or beneath the surface of your skin. It can be caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from either natural sources such as sunlight or artificial sources such as tanning beds. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma.
How Can a Dermatologist Help Diagnose Skin Cancer?
If you notice any suspicious spots or moles on your body, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your dermatologist will perform a physical examination and may use special tools such as dermoscopy or digital imaging to take a closer look at your skin. They may recommend further tests such as biopsies if necessary.
How Can a Dermatologist Help Treat Skin Cancer?
Once your dermatologist has identified the type and stage of skin cancer, they can work with you to develop an appropriate treatment plan for you. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment options may include topical creams, cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), radiation therapy or surgery – including Mohs surgery.
What Is Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is an advanced surgical technique that removes thin layers of affected tissue until none remainsm in order to target only affected areas while preserving healthy tissue. It involves mapping out where cancers are located before surgically removing them and then examining each layer under the microscope until all abnormal cells have been found and removed. This method has proven highly successful in treating certain types of skin cancers with high cure rates while minimizing scarring or tissue damage compared to traditional methods such as excisional surgery.
The Bottom Line
Skin cancer is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not caught early and treated adequately. While many over-the-counter treatments are available, consulting with a board-certified dermatologist is always best to ensure you are receiving the best possible care. A dermatologist can provide you with a professional diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you have any concerns about changes in your skin, make an appointment with a dermatologist today.
FAQs:
Q: What should I do if I find an unusual spot on my skin?
A: If you find any unusual spots or moles on your body that don’t seem normal, it is important that you seek medical attention right away so that your doctor can properly diagnose it and recommend treatment if necessary.
Q: Are there different treatments available for skin cancer?
A: Yes! Depending on the type and stage of skin cancer, there are many different treatments available including topical creams, cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT), radiation therapy, excisional surgery and Mohs surgery. Your dermatologist will work with you to decide which option is best for you based on your individual case.
Q: Is Mohs surgery effective at treating certain types of skin cancers?
A: Yes! Mohs Surgery has proven highly successful in treating certain types of skin cancers with high cure rates while minimizing scarring or tissue damage compared to traditional methods such as excisional surgery.
Q: What symptoms should I look out for when checking my skin?
A: Common signs that you may have an abnormal growth on your skin include changes in texture or color in moles; any new moles; large spots; patches that are redder than usual; persistent itching; bleeding sores that don’t heal; or any lumps that have grown over time without explanation. If you notice anything unusual like these symptoms, contact your dermatologist right away so they can examine your condition further and provide treatment if necessary.
Q: Is Mohs Surgery painful?
A: While all surgeries come with some level discomfort during recovery time, Mohs Surgery typically has minimal pain associated with it because it does not typically require incisions or general anesthesia like more traditional surgical methods do-only local numbing injections at each step throughout the procedure itself which helps reduce downtime post-surgery significantly compared to other treatments options as well.