The Skin Cancer Foundation says that skin cancer (the abnormal growth of skin cells) is the most diagnosed cancer in the world, let alone in the United States. If you’ve had more than five sunburns in your lifetime, especially close to the second degree, this can increase your risk for melanoma, and so can a family history of the disease. Skin cancer can be fatal in some cases, and one in five Americans is likely to experience skin cancer at some point in their lives by age 70. If you live near Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Boynton Beach, FL, visit one of our Board Certified Dermatologists at Feinstein Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery immediately if you have a new, changing, large, asymmetric, irregularly bordered, variably colored mole, freckle, or another skin lesion bleeding, irritating, or troubling you.
Skin Cancer: Explained
Skin cancer falls into three categories ranging from mild to severe: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell carcinoma appears as a bleeding or scabbing sore, a pearly or waxy bump, or a flat flesh-colored or brown lesion. Squamous cell carcinoma appears as firm, red nodules or flat, crusty lesions on sun-exposed skin areas such as the face, ears, hands, back, or shoulders. Melanoma, the most dangerous type, manifests as a mole that changes color, size, or texture, a large brownish spot with dark specks, or a painful, itching, burning lesion. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the body, even if areas that are not exposed to sunlight. Treatment for skin cancer in our Delray Beach, FL, office depends on the cause and severity.
Remember that prevention is the best form of care. Avoid excessive sun exposure and protect yourself when possible. It’s best to schedule routine skin checks with your dermatologist to detect skin abnormalities and increase your chance of successful treatment. If you have questions or concerns about skin cancer or a suspicious mole on your body, our Board Certified Dermatologists can answer them during your consultation. For more information about prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for skin cancer in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Boynton Beach, FL, or to schedule an appointment with a provider, call (561) 692-6422 or dial our toll-free number (888) 357-DERM.
