Everything You Ought to Know About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer refers to the abnormal growth of skin cells that often grows in areas of the body exposed to the sun. Despite this definition, skin cancer can also develop in areas not necessarily exposed to UV rays, making it crucial to keep track of abnormal changes on your skin. If you notice any strange colourings, growths, or scars, Ali Hendi, MD, the best Chevy Chase MD skin cancer specialist, can answer your questions, diagnose your condition (if any), and guide you through treatment.

Where Do Skin Cancers Occur?

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma usually occurs in areas exposed to the sun, such as the facial area and neck. It may appear like a flesh-coloured lesion, a waxy or pearl-like bump, or a scabbing sore that heals and worsens.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The squamous cell carcinoma typically occurs on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the ears, hands, and face. It is more common among people of colour, occurring even in areas not usually exposed to UV radiation. Typically, squamous cell carcinoma appears in the form of a firm, crimson-coloured nodule or a flat scaly lesion.

Melanoma

Melanoma can develop on any part of your body or on a mole that develops into cancer. Mostly, it appears on the trunk or face in men or on the lower legs in women. In both genders, it may also occur on skin that has not been exposed to the sun and affects people of any skin colour. In people of colour, it often appears on the soles, palms, toenails, or fingers.

Common Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Some of the most common symptoms of skin cancer include:

·         Skin lesions – These may appear in the form of a mole, an unusual growth, a bump, a dark spot, or a scaly patch on the skin that does not seem to disappear.

·         Asymmetry – There appears a lesion, but the two halves are visibly uneven, or they do not appear identical at all.

  • Color – A dark spot may have an abnormal color within it, such as pink, blue, red, or white.
  • Border – The lesions have edges that are uneven and ragged.
  • Evolving – The mole is visibly changing in color, size, and shape.
  • DiameterThe spot becomes bigger than a quarter of an inch.

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

Treatment of skin cancer will be determined by the type, where it is situated, and its stage. It is easily treated if detected in its early stage. Available treatment options include:

  • Mohs surgery
  • Laser therapy
  • Freezing, otherwise known as cryotherapy
  • Topical anti-cancer medicines
  • Curettage and desiccation.

The team at Ali Hendi, MD, will inform you all about the treatment options that are appropriate for the skin cancer you have with the intention of helping you make a decision from an informed position.

Conclusion

If you notice a suspicious-looking bump or mole on your skin, have a skin check, and seek assistance from the specialists at the office of Ali Hendi, MD. Ali Hendi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and an expert in advanced techniques to detect and treat all types of skin cancer. Contact the practice today or book a consultation online for a skin cancer evaluation.