Every day, more than 9,500 people in the United States learn they have skin cancer. At California Dermatology Physicians in Huntington Beach, California, Joseph Sedrak, MD, and Laura Cohen, MD, are skin cancer specialists. They provide comprehensive skin cancer screenings and offer the most up-to-date treatments. For expert skin cancer care, call or schedule an appointment online today.
Skin cancer starts in the skin cells. It develops when you have changes in skin cell DNA that trigger an overgrowth of skin cells.
The change in skin cell DNA occurs from overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or a tanning lamp. Skin cancer is very common, but it’s highly treatable when it’s caught in the early stages.
Where the skin cancer begins determines the type. Some of the common types of skin cancer include:
SCC is a type of cancer that originates in the squamous cells, which are the flat cells found on the surface of the skin. SCC appears as firm, raised, and scaly growths that may bleed.
BCC is a type of cancer that develops from the basal cells, which are the cells that line the bottom of the epidermis. This type of cancer may appear as a flat or flesh-colored lesion or pink, red, or translucent bump.
Melanoma develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells. This type of cancer may grow from an existing mole or as a new mole.
AK is a precancerous lesion that commonly progresses to SCC.
You should schedule a skin cancer screening at California Dermatology Physicians if you have any suspicious-looking skin growths or sores. Though anyone can develop skin cancer, you’re at greater risk if you have:
California Dermatology Physicians conducts a thorough skin exam when you come in with concerns about skin cancer. They carefully evaluate your skin from head-to-toe, making note of any unusual lesions or growths.
Surgical removal is the primary treatment for skin cancer. California Dermatology Physicians uses many methods for removing skin cancer, including surgical excision, curettage and electrodesiccation, and Mohs surgery.
After removing your lesion, your dermatologist sends the sample to the lab for analysis.
Call California Dermatology Physicians or schedule an appointment online to learn more about skin cancer and treatment options.