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Skin cancer is the uncontrolled overgrowth of abnormal skin cells caused by unrepaired DNA damage triggering a mutation causing skin cells to multiply quickly, forming cancer cells. Skin cancers, especially when caught early, can be treatable.
What is it?
The skin, our body's most extensive organ, consists of several layers. Skin cancer originates in the epidermis, which is composed of squamous cells (top layer), and can then penetrate deeper into the basal cells (below the squamous cells) and melanocytes (pigment cells).
Skin cancer can affect anyone and can manifest anywhere on the body, particularly on regions of the skin that have been excessively exposed to ultraviolet light, such as the sun, sun lamps and tanning beds. Our medical practice's team possesses extensive expertise in treating skin cancer across all skin tones and types, providing services in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and surrounding areas.
It's crucial to monitor any new or emerging spots or bumps on your skin that have unusual shape, color, size or texture. If you notice any skin spots or bumps that itch, bleed, crust or ooze, or if you observe any unusual or suspect marks on your skin, we encourage you to contact us and schedule an appointment for a thorough assessment. Remember, it's your skin, and it's essential to safeguard it.
Besides your annual skin check with Chapel Hill Dermatology, you can perform frequent self-examinations using the ABCDE method. You should promptly consult a dermatologist if a spot or mole exhibits:
A - Asymmetrical shape
B - Irregular borders
C - Color variations from one area to another
D - Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
E - Changes in size, shape or color since the last examination
You can reduce your risk of contracting skin cancer by limiting your sun exposure and shielding your skin from UV rays. Even though we recognize the allure of the sun, it can also be detrimental. Sun-induced damage can accumulate throughout the year - even in the chill of winter. Ensure to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and restrict your exposure to those harmful rays.
How is it treated?
Our dermatology clinic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, will meticulously examine any suspected skin cancer areas. If the region appears potentially cancerous, we'll proceed with extracting a sample for in-depth analysis. This procedure, known as a skin biopsy, enables us to forward your tissue to a lab. Our laboratory is fully certified by the College of American Pathologists, implying it upholds the highest benchmarks for precision and quality.
A microscopic examination in our lab will ascertain whether your tissue is benign (healthy, non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). If it's malignant, our highly experienced skin cancer specialists will identify the exact type of cancer and design a tailored treatment strategy. Our dermatologists diagnose and treat a comprehensive range of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, merkel cell carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) and sebaceous cell carcinoma.
Our specialized cancer team holds advanced training and certification in various skin cancer treatments, encompassing surgical excision, Mohs surgery, and targeted drug therapy. As part of DOCS Dermatology Group, our medical practice also has access to innovative clinical trials for cancers that are less responsive to conventional treatment.
Remember: Early detection is pivotal for a successful treatment plan.