Skin Cancer

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow abnormally and is often caused by exposure to the sun. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma.

Basal Cell & Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a localized type of skin cancer that shows up as a round growth, pearl-size bump or a pink area of skin. While basal cell carcinoma doesn’t usually spread to other parts of the body, early diagnosis is important because it can grow deep into the skin, nerves and bones, which can cause disfigurement or long-lasting damage.

Squamous cell carcinoma is also a type of skin cancer. It often appears as a scaly patch of skin or as a sore that heals and then reappears. Early detection is important as squamous cell carcinoma can grow deep into the body and spread to other parts of the body resulting in severe complications that can even be fatal.

Treatment for basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma generally includes removal of the carcinoma. If the cancer has been allowed to grow deep into the body, further treatment may be necessary.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a serious type of skin cancer that can spread to other parts of the body, so early detection is a must. The first sign of melanoma is usually a mole that has changed shape, color or texture. Regularly checking moles is the best way to catch melanoma early when it is most treatable.

Treatment for melanoma ranges from removal of the mole to a full course of cancer treatment including chemotherapy and radiation.