At Sunrise Dermatology, we value our patients and want to make sure they fully understand their skin cancer. The three main types of skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Malignant Melanoma.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), the most common type of skin cancer is often found on the face, neck, and other parts of the body where the skin has had chronic sun exposure or tanning bed use. A BCC can appear as an open sore, a red patch or pink, pearly growths. This type of skin cancer is easily treated if caught early.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), the second most common type of skin cancer can occur on the face, neck, scalp, and any other location exposed to chronic sun. SCC can also occur on the mucosal surfaces of the mouth and genitalia. This type of skin cancer can appear as wart-like growths, open sores or scaly and crusty lesions.
Melanoma is considered one of the most dangerous and aggressive types of skin cancer. These lesions typically resemble dark brown or black pigmented lesions, but can also be pink or sometimes even white or blue. Intense sun exposure and tanning bed use can contribute to the development of melanoma. Irregularly shaped moles, changing moles, non-healing or bleeding moles should be evaluated by your skin care expert. Melanoma is typically cured by surgical intervention if caught early.
Here in the south, our warm beaches and summer activities keep us busy in the sun. We want to keep you safe and monitor your skin, while you enjoy your time! Yearly skin cancer screenings are recommended especially if you have a fair skin type, family history of skin cancer, have extensive sun exposure or use the tanning bed. Call our office to schedule your skin exam with our experts today!