Skin Cancer Dermatology
Skin Cancer: Early Detection Saves Lives
For several years, Dr. Rodgers and the skilled team at Rodgers Dermatology have been dedicated to the specialized treatment of skin cancer in Frisco. The timely detection of skin cancer, a key focus of our practice, greatly enhances the effectiveness of treatment. Often, skin cancers are identified during routine skin examinations, with patients unaware of their presence. Our expertise extends beyond treatment, addressing skin rejuvenation in Frisco, particularly for individuals with a history of excessive UV exposure. Schedule your appointment today with our experienced skin cancer dermatologist at Rodgers Dermatology and grant yourself the assurance of comprehensive care and peace of mind.
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer that begins in cells known as melanocytes. These are the cells that produce pigment in the skin. It is less common than basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but is more dangerous.
Melanoma can spread to lymph nodes and other organs if not treated at an early stage.
Look for anything that is new, changing, or unusual on both sun-exposed and sun-protected areas of the body. Melanoma most commonly appear on the legs in women, and on the trunk in men. Melanoma can appear on ANY area of the skin, even in areas where the sun doesn’t shine!
Learn the ABCDEs of melanoma and the Ugly Duckling sign
Here are some hints for early detection:
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is caused by damage and subsequent DNA changes to skin cells. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and indoor tanning is the major cause of BCC’s and most skin cancers. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer in the world! BCC’s typically do not spread to lymph nodes or other organs, but will destroy normal tissue as they grow, including skin, cartilage, bone, and muscle.
BCC’s can appear as a pink, irregular spot or a pearly bump. Sometimes they bleed easily or don’t seem to heal.
Most BCC’s can be easily cured. Treatment options include:
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer.
SCC can appear as scaly red patches, open sores, rough thickened or wart-like skin, or raised growths with a central depression.
While most SCCs can be easily and successfully treated, if allowed to grow, these lesions can become disfiguring, dangerous and even deadly. Untreated SCCs can become invasive, grow into deeper layers of skin and spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment options include:
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rodgers for Skin Cancer treatment in Frisco, TX
If you are worried about skin cancer in Frisco, give yourself the peace of mind of early detection and prevention by seeing Rodgers Dermatology today! Request an appointment online or give us a call at 972-704-2400 to speak with our friendly, welcoming staff about your skin cancer concerns.
About Treating Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of human cancers, affecting more than one million Americans every year. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their lives.
Skin Cancer Treatment Options in Frisco, TX
There are several treatment options depending on the type of skin cancer you have and other factors. When choosing the treatment right for you, the experts at Rodgers Dermatology will answer your questions, help diagnose your skin condition, and develop the right treatment plan for your individual needs. Explore the different types of skin cancer treatment.
Excision
Most melanomas and many non-melanoma skin cancers such as basal cells and squamous cells are treated by excision. Like Mohs surgery, the malignant moles, lesions, and tumors are removed surgically during an excision surgery. Treatments are done in the office as an outpatient.
Electrodessication and Curettage
During this type of surgical removal, your dermatologist first scrapes the Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) from your skin, using a curetting technique. Then, a procedure called electrodesiccation is used to destroy any remaining cancer cells with heat. This surgery is usually performed only when BCC develops on the trunk, an arm, or a leg.
Medication Applied to the Skin
A prescribed medication is applied to the skin to kill malignant cells. This treatment has a lower cure rate than other types of treatment. As these medications destroy cancer cells, you will likely feel the effects on the treated area. Side effects of these medications include skin redness, swelling, sores, crusting, itching, and tingling sensations.
Radiation Treatments
If radiation treatment is prescribed to treat BCC, you will need to go to a hospital or treatment center for your skin cancer treatments. These are usually given over a period of several weeks.