Detecting and Treating Skin Cancer

Skin is humanbody’s largest and most visible organ. Partially because of that, skin cancer isthe most prevalent type of cancer in the United States. It is also highlypreventable, with information regarding sun protection more accessible andwidespread now than ever before. Western Dermatology Consultants specializes inmedical dermatology services in Albuquerque, addressing conditions like skin cancer, in addition to cosmetic dermatology.

Skin cancer isassociated with the out-of-control, abnormal growth of cells in the epidermisof the skin, caused by problems with DNA. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skincancer, can spread beyond its place in the skin, moving to the internal organs withfatal repercussions.

To help lower your risk of a bad outcome related to skin cancer, it is important to become familiar with your skin and routinely examine the entire surface for anything that seems out of the ordinary.

One of the bestguidelines for spotting signs and symptoms of skin cancer is the ABCDE rule.Watch for moles with these factors in mind:

• Asymmetry:Irregular shapes
• Border:Unclear margins
• Color:Unusual colors (such as red, white, pink, or blue)
• Diameter:Larger than a pencil eraser
• Evolving:Recent changes

You can contactus if anything concerning crops up. Our board-certified dermatologists can performa skin cancer screening and take a biopsy if necessary.

In cases wherebasal or squamous cell carcinomas are identified, one of the most effective,innovative ways of treating the condition is Mohs surgery—an option with one ofthe highest cure rates of all methods.

A surgeonspecifically trained in this area will gradually, systematically remove tissuelayer by layer, examining each sample under a microscope. This is continueduntil the tumor is gone and no additional cancerous cells are found. Mohs surgeryallows you to preserve a large amount of the surrounding, healthy tissue,making it a great choice for features like the ears, nose, and area around theeyes. At the end of the session, the treatment site is cosmetically repaired.

While earlydetection is important, prevention is ideal. Taking sun protection seriously isthe best way to safeguard your skin in the long term, while also minimizing thedevelopment of wrinkles. We advise seeking shelter indoors and avoiding goingout in the sun during its peak hours. Additionally, you should apply sufficientamounts of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before goingout each day. Cover your skin with sun-protective clothing and wear darklytinted sunglasses.

Albuquerque’s WesternDermatology Consultants can help you identify and plan a treatment for skincancer. Get in touch today by calling 505-855-5503 or filling out a contact form.