Skin Cancer, Skin Cancer Screenings

Skin Cancer Overview

At Hattiesburg Clinic, we strive to educate patients with strategies and tips for skin cancer prevention. We believe prevention strategies and regular skin screenings are the first line of defense in the battle against skin cancer. We encourage all of our patients to schedule regular skin screenings to monitor any irregularities or spots that may occur.

However, if skin cancer becomes a reality, we have a variety of methods available for treatment. There are many different types of skin cancer and diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer varies by type of tumor, size, location and recurrence.

What are the types of skin cancer?

There are several types of skin cancer. Below are the three most common forms of skin cancer that we treat:

Basal Cell Carcinoma – this is the most common type and is often slow growing with rare metastasis. (Individual experiences may vary). Obstacles faced with this type of cancer comes with gradual enlargement, penetration into cartilage, bone, muscle and nerve tissue

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – this is the second most common type of skin cancer and has a higher chance of spreading. It’s likely to appear in burn scars and areas of repeated irritation.

Melanoma – this is a form of cancer that begins in melanocytes (cells that make the pigment melanin). It may begin in a mole (skin melanoma) but can also begin in other pigmented tissues, such as in the eye or in the intestines.

What can I expect with skin cancer treatment?

If your provider discovers an area of concern, a biopsy will be performed to determine the diagnosis. Because types and severity of skin cancer differ from patient to patient, treatment will depend on type of tumor, location, size, depth of tissue invasion and any other additional factors. Possible treatment options can include:

Cryosurgery
Electrodessication and curettage
Photodynamic therapy
Topical chemotherapeutic or immunomodulating drugs
Surgical excision
Radiation therapy

If you have been diagnosed with a particular type of skin cancer or precancerous condition, your provider will discuss appropriate treatment options. Skin cancer excision is the surgical removal of the tumor and a portion of the healthy tissue surrounding the tumor to ensure adequate and complete removal. Generally, only a local anesthetic is used to numb the area. After the cancerous tissue is removed, the incision is often closed with stitches to provide faster healing and improved cosmetic results.

Skin Cancer & Screenings

Skin Cancer Overview

What are the types of skin cancer?

What can I expect with skin cancer treatment?

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