How Dermatologists Treat Different Types of Skin Cancer

A male patient having his skin examined by a dermatologist for signs of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and early diagnosis plays an important role in successful treatment. Dermatologists are specially trained to identify and manage various forms of skin cancer using techniques designed to remove cancerous cells while protecting as much healthy tissue as possible. At Jacksonville Dermatology Associates in Jacksonville, FL, patients can receive professional evaluation and treatment for different types of skin cancer, along with guidance on protecting their skin in the future.

Understanding how dermatologists approach treatment can help patients feel more confident about seeking care when changes in their skin occur.

Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently diagnosed form of skin cancer. It often develops on areas of the body that receive regular sun exposure, such as the face, neck, or arms. This type of skin cancer typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can still cause damage to surrounding tissue if left untreated.

Dermatologists often treat basal cell carcinoma by removing the cancerous tissue. Surgical excision is a common method in which the affected area and a small margin of surrounding skin are carefully removed. In certain cases, specialized techniques that allow for precise removal of cancer cells layer by layer may be recommended to preserve healthy skin.

Managing Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is another common form of skin cancer and can develop in areas frequently exposed to sunlight. It may appear as a rough patch, scaly lesion, or sore that does not heal properly. Compared with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma may grow more quickly and occasionally spread if not treated.

Treatment typically involves removing the cancerous growth. Dermatologists may use surgical removal or other procedures depending on the location and size of the lesion. Early treatment often results in excellent outcomes and helps prevent the cancer from spreading to deeper tissues.

Addressing Melanoma

Melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer but is considered more serious because it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. It often develops from pigment-producing cells and may appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole.

When melanoma is diagnosed, dermatologists usually recommend surgical removal of the tumor along with a margin of surrounding skin to ensure that cancer cells are fully removed. Additional testing or treatment may be recommended depending on the stage of the cancer. Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.

The Importance of Early Evaluation

Regular skin checks and prompt evaluation of unusual moles or lesions are important steps in detecting skin cancer early. Dermatologists carefully examine the skin for changes in size, shape, color, or texture that may indicate abnormal cell growth. Early treatment is often simpler and more effective than addressing cancer that has progressed.

Jacksonville Dermatology Associates in Jacksonville, FL, provides comprehensive care for patients concerned about skin cancer and other dermatologic conditions. If you notice new or changing spots on your skin, scheduling a professional evaluation can provide peace of mind and early treatment when necessary. To learn more or make an appointment, call (904) 279-8202.

A male patient having his skin examined by a dermatologist for signs of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, and early diagnosis plays an important role in successful treatment. Dermatologists are specially trained to identify and manage various forms of skin cancer using techniques designed to remove cancerous cells while protecting as much healthy tissue as possible. At Jacksonville Dermatology Associates in Jacksonville, FL, patients can receive professional evaluation and treatment for different types of skin cancer, along with guidance on protecting their skin in the future.

Understanding how dermatologists approach treatment can help patients feel more confident about seeking care when changes in their skin occur.

Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently diagnosed form of skin cancer. It often develops on areas of the body that receive regular sun exposure, such as the face, neck, or arms. This type of skin cancer typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can still cause damage to surrounding tissue if left untreated.

Dermatologists often treat basal cell carcinoma by removing the cancerous tissue. Surgical excision is a common method in which the affected area and a small margin of surrounding skin are carefully removed. In certain cases, specialized techniques that allow for precise removal of cancer cells layer by layer may be recommended to preserve healthy skin.

Managing Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is another common form of skin cancer and can develop in areas frequently exposed to sunlight. It may appear as a rough patch, scaly lesion, or sore that does not heal properly. Compared with basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma may grow more quickly and occasionally spread if not treated.

Treatment typically involves removing the cancerous growth. Dermatologists may use surgical removal or other procedures depending on the location and size of the lesion. Early treatment often results in excellent outcomes and helps prevent the cancer from spreading to deeper tissues.

Addressing Melanoma

Melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer but is considered more serious because it can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. It often develops from pigment-producing cells and may appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole.

When melanoma is diagnosed, dermatologists usually recommend surgical removal of the tumor along with a margin of surrounding skin to ensure that cancer cells are fully removed. Additional testing or treatment may be recommended depending on the stage of the cancer. Early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.

The Importance of Early Evaluation

Regular skin checks and prompt evaluation of unusual moles or lesions are important steps in detecting skin cancer early. Dermatologists carefully examine the skin for changes in size, shape, color, or texture that may indicate abnormal cell growth. Early treatment is often simpler and more effective than addressing cancer that has progressed.

Jacksonville Dermatology Associates in Jacksonville, FL, provides comprehensive care for patients concerned about skin cancer and other dermatologic conditions. If you notice new or changing spots on your skin, scheduling a professional evaluation can provide peace of mind and early treatment when necessary. To learn more or make an appointment, call (904) 279-8202.

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  • Jacksonville Dermatology Associates, PL

    8075 Gate Pkwy West #201,
    Jacksonville, FL 32216

    Monday:

    8:00 am - 4:00 pm

    Tuesday:

    8:00 am - 3:30 pm

    Wednesday:

    8:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Thursday:

    8:00 am - 3:30 pm

    Friday:

    8:00 am - 2:00 pm

    Saturday:

    Closed

    Sunday:

    Closed

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