Millions are diagnosed with skin cancer each year and the median age is getting lower: people as young as 18 are getting diagnosed with skin cancer.

Three types of very common skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. All of these are easily treatable, although if Melanoma is not detected early enough, it could lead to serious complications.

A few telltale signs of the common skin cancers should be considered before you come in for a diagnosis, since a painful skin biopsy is the only way to guarantee a diagnosis. For Basal Cell Carcinoma, be on the lookout for raised, smooth, pearly bumps around the head, neck, or shoulder areas. It often resembles a sore, but fails to heal. For Squamous Cell Carcinoma, look for red, scaling, thickening patches of skin in sun-exposed areas. Melanoma appears as dark, either brown or black, lesions. Be observant of any moles changing size, shape, elevation, or color.

Three common methods of treating these cancers are:
· Photodynamic Therapy: an injection combined with a laser light destroys cancerous tissue;
· Topical Chemotherapy: medicine is placed directly on the skin;
· Surgery: used for cases too far along for alternative methods to work. MOHS surgery is an accurate, micrographically controlled procedure meant to completely remove the cancerous tissue.

You can detect what may be the onset of skin cancer by getting a head-to-toe “body check” for skin cancer each year, or seeing a dermatologist when you see an unusual skin lesion appear. We at DAA hope you will take good care of your skin and never hesitate to come to us with any questions.

Our specialized doctors have excellent credentials and a wealth of experience to make your visit as pleasant and painless as possible.