Skin cancer can occur in people of all ages, including children and older adults. Although skin cancer responds well to treatment in its early stages, it can cause life-threatening symptoms if left untreated. Dr. Samantha Robare Cypress and her team at Magnolia Dermatology utilize the advanced technology to treat and prevent skin cancer recurrence.
Table of Contents
Different forms of skin cancer
Skin cancer is a chronic disease that results in abnormal multiplication in your skin cells. Mutations in your DNA can trigger this crazy cell multiplication leading to a mass of cancer cells. It often develops in areas exposed to UV rays but can also develop in hidden places. This type of cancer can occur in anyone regardless of age, sex, or race, although it is more common in people with a light skin complexion. There are several types of skin cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), and melanoma.
- Basal cell carcinoma
As the most prevalent form of skin cancer, BCC usually manifests as tiny, pink bumps on your skin. It often develops in areas with prolonged sun exposure, such as your face, arms, and chest. It is a slowly progressive disease that rarely metastasizes but jeopardizes your life by destroying a good amount of healthy tissue.
- Melanoma
Melanoma is the most severe form of skin cancer. In most cases, the disease begins as a small mole that evolves to form a mass of cancer cells. Although it is treatable when detected early, it can spread rapidly, leading to life-threatening symptoms. Regular skin screening at dermatology in midland is beneficial to detect this type of cancer and treat it before it becomes a menace in your life.
- Squamous cell carcinoma
Although SCC is the least prevalent form of skin cancer, many adults still get it. Squamous cell carcinoma’s lesions usually look like scaly sores on your back, neck, ears, or face. Although it is more prevalent in light-skinned individuals, it can affect people with a dark complexion. This form of cancer is rarely life-threatening but can be aggressive and spread to other parts of your body.
Factors elevating your risk of skin cancer
The exact skin cancer trigger is still unknown, but several factors may elevate your risk of developing it. Extended periods of UV light exposure from sun lamps, tanning beds, or the sun can damage your skin cells, resulting in skin cancer. While moles don’t always signify skin cancer, they can potentially develop into melanoma. You may have an elevated risk if you also have relatives with a history of skin cancer. Magnolia Dermatology specialists recommend regular cancer screenings to help your doctor detect the disease before it causes more damage.
Available treatments for skin cancer
After diagnosis, your provider may educate you about the available treatment options before developing a treatment plan. The type of treatment you need relies on the stage, size, location, and type of cancer. The team may suggest chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, immunotherapy, cryotherapy, and surgical excision.
To learn more about skin cancer treatments, call the Magnolia Dermatology office or use the online scheduling tool to create an appointment.