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Early detection and treatment are the best way to beat skin cancer. In fact, when found early, skin cancer can be cured. At Skin Cancer Specialists in Mesa, Arizona, Daniel Skinner, MD, and Grant Heinz, MD, offer state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment solutions for different types of skin cancer. Don’t ignore irregularities or changes to your skin. Call the office to learn more.
Skin Cancer Q&A
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. It generally occurs in areas of your body, such as your head and neck, that are exposed to the sun or other forms of ultraviolet radiation, like tanning beds.
There are different kinds of skin cancer, including:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): the most common and can grow into nerves and bone
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): the second-most common and can penetrate deep into your skin
- Melanoma: the deadliest type of skin cancer and can spread aggressively
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but you’re at a higher risk if you have fair skin. You also have a higher risk if you have a family history of skin cancer.
What are the symptoms of skin cancer on the head or neck?
In most cases, skin cancer looks like an unusual growth on your skin. Depending on which form of skin cancer you have, your symptoms might include:
- Waxy or pearly bump
- Scaly, crusted, brown or flesh-colored lesion
- Firm, red lump
- Large brown spot with dark dots
- Mole changing in size, color, or texture (might also bleed)
To detect skin cancer as early as possible, it’s essential to contact Skin Cancer Specialists as soon as you notice any changes that concern you.
How is skin cancer on the head or neck diagnosed and treated?
During your appointment, your specialist examines the area and takes a biopsy. Based on lab testing, they diagnose which type of skin cancer is present and outline additional testing to determine the extent of your condition. This might include imaging tests to evaluate your surrounding lymph nodes as well as looking for signs of cancer in other parts of your body.
Your specialist outlines a treatment strategy for your skin cancer based on its type and severity. Skin cancer therapies often include:
- Freezing with liquid nitrogen or cryosurgery
- Excising or cutting out the cancerous tissue
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Photodynamic therapy
- Biological therapy
In many cases, skin cancer in the early stages responds to Mohs surgery. This technique is designed only to remove cancerous tissue while leaving surrounding healthy tissue untouched.
To learn more about skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, call Skin Cancer Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.