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Skin Cancer
ears of sun exposure leaves not only wrinkles and tan, but increased risk
of skin cancer. Lengthy exposure to ultraviolet rays damages cellular DNA, causing cells
to multiply aimlessly and aggressively. The result is skin cancer.
Squamous and basal cell carcinomas are the most frequent, but melanomas are the most dangerous. Lesions are often present as dark or crusted spots which progressively increase in size. They then become painful, ulcerate, and bleed.
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Left: Basal cell carcinoma may come in may forms. It often begins as a small, pearly nodule. Center: Squamous cell carcinoma may begin as a red, scaly patch; a group of crusted nodules; or a sore that doesn't heal. Right: Malignant melanoma is often asymmetrical, with blurred or ragged edges and mottled colors. |
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As expected, the majority of skin cancers are found on the most sun-exposed areas of the body: hands, arms, and face. Early cancers can often be treated with burning or the use of Efudex® ointment, but more advanced lesions require surgical excision and sometimes skin grafting. Melanomas in particular require agressive surgical therapy.
Small lesions can be excised under local anesthesia in the office, but larger or more involved cancers may require general anesthesia in the hospital. Most patients return to normal activities in a couple of days. These surgeries can usually be performed in the office or as a day-surgery procedure at the hospital.