Skin cancer and treatment
Skin cancer is common and affects millions of people each year. There is various type of skin cancers, and some are seen more often than the rest. The most common varieties are squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Another type of skin cancer that is less common but potentially can be very dangerous is melanoma. When spotted early, skin cancers are very treatable. Learn more here from your top south Charlotte dermatology practice.
What your dermatologist will ask
During an examination, your dermatologist will focus on the following:
- Your history
- Your exam
- Any prior care that you have received
A lot can be learned from the story of a spot on your skin. Bleeding, growing, nonhealing, or changing spots are clues that your spot may be problematic.
When examining your skin, your dermatologist will look for some specific features. If you have a spot that has been bothering you, your dermatologist will take a careful look at that area.
When looking for common forms of skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinomas or basal cell carcinomas, your dermatologist will search for any pink spots on your skin that may be more shiny or scaly than the rest or for sores that aren’t healing as they should.
How can a Ballantyne dermatologist diagnose skin cancer?
It is conceivable to find skin cancer early because this begins on the skin, which makes it highly treatable.
Your dermatologist will carefully examine your skin. If they locate a spot on your skin that can possibly be any form of skin cancer, the dermatologist will numb the area first before removing a part, or all, of it. This is called a skin biopsy and can be done during a visit to your dermatologist’s office. A biopsy is a simple procedure, which can be done safely, quickly, and easily by a dermatologist.
A skin biopsy is the only means to determine whether or not you have skin cancer. The removed skin is then analyzed under a high-powered microscope. Your doctor who has in-depth experience with diagnosing skin growths or your dermatologist will be best qualified to examine the tissue.
After the tissue is examined, a biopsy report will be written, explaining what was seen through the microscope, including whether or not any skin cancer cells were discovered.
Skin cancer exam in Charlotte, NC
An initial skin cancer screening is an easy and non-invasive practice, so anyone with any skin concerns should book an appointment with a dermatologist. The screening is a simple visual exam that a dermatologist will perform to examine all areas of your skin. During the exam, you will be wearing a hospital gown, and however, you shouldn’t be concerned about any of your private areas being examined. Still, if you have any concerns about growth in a private region, you should tell the dermatologist about it so it can be adequately studied.
Charlotte’s top skin cancer dermatologist
Contact Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte, Charlotte’s top Ballantyne and Blakeney Dermatologist, for your dermatology care.