Skin Cancer

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer, the most common type of cancer, develops most often on frequently sun-exposed skin due to abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth. It happens because of damage to the DNA of the cells, which usually comes from ultraviolet (UV) light. 

Tanning beds and sun exposure are the top two causes of skin cancer, so it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen and avoid tanning beds altogether. Fortunately, an early skin cancer diagnosis is fairly simple to treat.

At Heber Valley Dermatology, Dr. Collins offers comprehensive skin evaluations with advanced testing and can treat any detected skin cancer or precancerous lesions. 

Which type of skin cancer do I have?

Skin cancer comes in several different varieties, some of which are more dangerous than others. Dr. Collins looks at your skin and may perform a biopsy to diagnose:

Actinic keratoses

Actinic keratoses are not skin cancer, but they’re at risk of turning into it. They look like small, scaly patches of skin and usually appear on fair-skinned individuals. 

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

SCC is a type of skin cancer that often develops from actinic keratoses. It affects the squamous cells, which are the flat cells nearing the surface of your epidermis. Typically, it looks like a red bump or a sore that has trouble healing. 

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

BCC is the most common type of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells of the epidermis, which are deeper than the squamous cells. Typically, BCC looks like a pearly or flesh-toned bump. It can also appear as a small pinkish patch. 

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that spreads faster and more easily than SCC and BCC. It looks like a new mole, or it can develop in a mole you already have. Melanoma develops in the melanocyte cells that give your skin its pigment. 

There are other less common types of skin cancer that Dr. Collins can teach you about in the office. 

How is skin cancer treated?

If you get a skin cancer diagnosis before cancer has metastasized (spread), treatment should be relatively simple and quick. Dr. Collins creates your treatment plan based on the type of skin cancer you have, and treatments vary widely. 

Depending on your skin cancer type, grade, and location, its treatment or removal may involve:

• Cryosurgery
• Surgical shave
• Surgical excision
• Curettage and electrodesiccation
• Chemotherapy with topical creams or lotions
• Photodynamic therapy
• Mohs micrographic surgery

More advanced treatment is needed when skin cancer spreads, and it may involve biological therapy, radiation therapy, or systemic chemotherapy. If this is the case, Dr. Collins may coordinate your treatment with other specialists. 

To schedule a skin cancer screening or evaluation for a suspicious lesion, call either Heber Valley Dermatology office or book an appointment online today.