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Dermatology Info & Procedures
> Skin Cancer
Skin Specialists provides accurate diagnosis and treatment for the common types of skin cancer listed below. Dr. Schlessinger has done research on drugs for the treatment of skin cancer and is an expert in Moh's surgery, the most effective treatment for skin cancer. Early detection is important for the early diagnosis of skin cancer, so keep an eye on any moles and schedule regular check-ups with us. In addition to having participated in studies on skin cancer, Dr. Schlessinger and the professionals at Skin Specialists are experts in mole evaluation, skin cancer evaluation and treatment.
Studies have found that sunburns and excessive sun exposure may increase a person's risk for the disease, so the American Academy of Dermatology and Dr. Schlessinger recommend:
• Stay out of the sun between the hours of 10 and 3
• Never go to tanning booths
• Wear sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours while exercising or sweating
• Wear a hat and sunglasses while outdoors
Basal Cell Carcinoma
This tumor of the skin usually appears as a small, fleshy bump or nodule on the head, neck or other part of the body. The tumor does not spread quickly and may take months or even years to reach the diameter of half an inch. Although basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can extend below the skin and outwardly causing considerable damage.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
These tumors may appear as bumps or red, scaly patches. Squamous cell carcinoma is typically found on the rim of the ear, the face, the lips and mouth. The tumors can become larger and even can spread to other parts of the body if neglected.
Malignant Melanoma
It's estimated that this type of skin cancer will affect 32,000 Americans every year. But, if detected in its early stages, malignant melanoma can almost always be cured. Melanoma may suddenly appear without warning - but may also begin in or near an existing mole or other dark place on the skin. See below for an explanation of the ABCD's of melanoma.
Know Your ABCD's
Recognize the warning signs of malignant melanoma by using this easy-to-remember guide:
• A stands for asymmetry
Beware of moles where one half doesn't match the other half in shape.
• B stands for border
Watch for moles with ragged, blurred or irregular borders or edges.
• C stands for color
Look for uneven coloration, more than one color, or moles with unusual colors.
• D stands for diameter
Give special attention to moles with a diameter larger than the size of a pencil eraser.
Moh's Micrographic Surgery
This skin cancer treatment allows a 96% to 98% rate of cure. Dr. Schlessinger is one of a select group of dermatologists in the U.S. performing Moh's skin cancer surgery and a member of the American Society for Moh's Surgery. This surgery is especially effective in treating basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.
At Skin Specialists we have a state certified and Medicare certified ambulatory surgical center and perform many of our surgeries for skin cancer in this state-of-the-art facility. Contact us if you would like to set up an appointment for an early detection evaluation.
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