Skin Cancer

Cutis Wellness Dermatology & Dermatopathology, PLLC

Dermatologist & Dermatopathologist located in Laredo, TX

The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that more than 9,500 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every day in the United States. If you have a suspicious area or spot on your body or need a skin cancer screening, trust Adaobi Nwaneshiudu Obasi, MD, PhD, of Cutis Wellness Dermatology & Dermatopathology, PLLC in Laredo, Texas. She can evaluate any questionable sites, provide regular screenings, and treat skin cancer if you’re diagnosed. Call the office or book online for your skin cancer prevention and evaluation needs.

956-452-0030

Skin Cancer Q & A

What are the types of skin cancer?

Three major types of skin cancer are most common.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently diagnosed. It usually shows up in areas of your body that are exposed to the sun, such as the head and neck. It’s a slow-growing cancer that may appear as a slightly transparent bump on the skin. Basal cell carcinoma can be resolved by removal of the lesion, but it’s best treated early before it spreads and leads to disfigurement.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It’s also usually caused by exposure to ultraviolet light in the sun or tanning beds. Usually, squamous cell carcinoma appears on the head, neck, chest, upper back, lips, arms, legs, hands, and ears. Squamous cell cancer can spread to the bones, lymph nodes, and nearby tissues. When it spreads, it’s much harder to treat.

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. It can appear anywhere on your body, even your genitals. Melanoma can spread quickly if not treated early.

What signs indicate possible skin cancer?

Squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma have similar signs, including:

Pearly or waxy bumps
Visible pink or reddened spots
A flat lesion with a crusty or scaly surface
A flat brown or flesh-colored scar

If you notice any of these lesions, spots, or other irregularities, consult with the team at Cutis Wellness Dermatology & Dermatopathology. They can evaluate them and do a biopsy to see if they’re cancerous and need treatment.

These symptoms can also describe actinic keratosis. This type of precancerous lesion may develop into full-blown skin cancer if not treated right away.

What are the symptoms of melanoma?

Melanoma is often detected when a mole changes size, color, or feel. You may also find melanoma looks like:

A large brown spot with dark speckles
Dark spots on areas such as your palms, toes, soles of the feet, lining of your nose, vagina, or anus
A small patch with irregular borders that appear red, white, and blue

People who are at greater risk of melanoma are those who have a personal or family history of the disease. If your complexion tends to be fair with a lot of moles, you’re also at greater risk and should undergo regular skin cancer screenings.

How is skin cancer treated?

Diagnosed lesions of cancer should be removed before they spread. Excisional surgery is one method. Mohs surgery is another procedure of choice because it has a high cure rate and allows the doctor to see where the cancer stops. This means you keep as much healthy skin as possible, as the doctors only remove the skin with cancerous cells.

If you suspect skin cancer or need a screening to ensure your skin is in its best health, call Cutis Wellness Dermatology & Dermatopathology or book an appointment online.

What we offer