Detecting Skin Cancer Early: Signs, Symptoms, and Self-Exams

Detecting Skin Cancer Early: Signs, Symptoms, and Self-Exams

Of all the different types of cancer to affect adults in the U.S., skin cancer is the most common. It is much easier to treat during the early stages, and most types of skin cancer can be cured when detected early. Two methods for detecting skin cancer early include self-exams and annual skin cancer screenings with a dermatologist. Dr. Josef Yeager, Dr. Caroline Yeager, and Dr. Sanders Berk, the board certified dermatologists at Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, MD, perform skin cancer screenings. 

Types of Skin Cancer

There are many different types of skin cancer. Most are caused by excessive exposure to UV rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Two of the most common types of skin cancer include squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Both are usually very treatable, especially when detected early. Melanoma is the least common but most serious type of skin cancer because it is more likely to spread than other types. It is treatable when caught early. 

Skin Cancer Signs and Symptoms

One sign that skin cancer might have developed is an unusual change in the skin, such as the appearance of a new mole or growth. If you observe any changes in your skin, see one of the experienced dermatologists at our office in Rockville, MD, for a skin cancer screening. Some common signs and symptoms of skin cancer include:

• The development of a new mole
• Sudden bleeding or itching of moles
• Moles that have grown larger or become asymmetrical 
• Development of large brown spots that contain darker speckles 
• Unusual growths on the skin that hurt, bleed, or change in size
• Pale or waxy patches of skin that become crusty, scaly, or are oozing or bleeding
• Sores that continue to reopen after healing 
• Patches of pink or red scaly lesions 

Importance of Self-Exams

Examining your skin regularly at home is an effective way to spot the early warning signs of skin cancer. Performing a full-body self-exam of your skin every month makes it possible to detect problems or changes as soon as they occur. See our dermatologist right away if you do discover any issues. Skin cancer is both curable and easier to treat when caught early.

Treatments for Skin Cancer

Many different methods exist for treating cancer. The specific treatment needed depends on several factors, including the type of cancer and whether the cancer is in the early or later stages. Examples of common skin cancer treatments include:

• Cryosurgery
• Surgical excision 
• Curettage and desiccation 
• Prescription medicated creams
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery
• Radiation therapy 

Contact Us Today

Detecting skin cancer early is one of the keys to treating it. Early detection can be accomplished through regular self-exams and skin cancer screenings. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Yeager, Dr. Yeager, or Dr. Berk to be screened for skin cancer by calling Shady Grove Dermatology in Rockville, MD, at (240) 246-7417.