Skin Cancer

Skin cancer impacts over a million Americans annually, and one in five people will develop skin cancer during their lives. The good news is that skin cancers respond well to treatment when caught early, and Shady Grove Dermatology is led by board-certified dermatologists. The team offers skin screenings and effective skin cancer treatments at the office in Rockville, Maryland. If you’re concerned about your skin cancer risk, call Shady Grove Dermatology for a skin examination or book an appointment online today.

How common is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. It occurs from long-term ultraviolet (UV) rays damaging your skin cells, which causes uncontrollable, abnormal growth and lesions. This makes it vital to avoid sun damage and get regular skin examinations.

Is there more than one type of skin cancer?

Shady Grove Dermatology provides diagnoses and treatments for multiple kinds of skin cancer, including:

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is caused by sun exposure, so it is usually found on areas that get a lot of sun, such as the scalp, chest, face, and neck. It appears as pearly nodules or open sores.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma results from sun damage or carcinogens, such as tobacco smoke. Look out for lesions that become thick, crusted, or scaly because this form of cancer can grow quickly and cause significant damage to the surrounding tissues.

Melanoma

Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells and is an aggressive skin cancer. The risk of melanoma increases from repeated sun damage or if you have a family medical history of skin cancer.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

Your symptoms may vary depending on the type of skin cancer, but get a skin examination if you observe:

• Itching, painful, or tender skin
• Unhealing or frequently bleeding sores
• Pink, translucent, or pearly skin growths

Because melanoma can appear as irregularly shaped moles, keep an eye on skin growths and talk to a provider if you notice changes. You can use an ABCDE guide to remember when to get moles checked:

• Asymmetry — uneven from one side of the mole to the other
• Border — notched, scalloped, or irregular mole borders
• Color changes — the mole shifts color or becomes multicolored
• Diameter — sudden growth (especially in larger moles)
• Evolving — unexpected changes in the mole’s shape, color, size, or height

If in doubt, contact the Shady Grove Dermatology team with any questions to protect your peace of mind.

What can I expect from skin cancer treatment?

If a thorough skin examination reveals anything concerning, your provider takes a biopsy for lab testing. Skin cancer treatment may include:

• Prescription topical treatments
• Cryosurgery
• Curettage and desiccation
• Mohs micrographic surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Surgical excision

The team of skilled dermatologists works toward your best aesthetic and health outcomes. Learn more about skin cancer screenings and treatments by calling the Shady Grove Dermatology office today or booking a consultation online.