Skin Cancer

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

Skin cancer usually forms when skin cells develop abnormally due to frequent sun exposure. Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning bed triggers the development of melanin, a pigment in skin cells, which is designed to protect your skin from further damage. This effect can increase your risk of skin cancer.

The signs and symptoms you have with skin cancer depend on which type you have. Read more about skin cancer warning signs below.

Actinic keratoses

Actinic keratoses are precancerous cells that if left untreated are highly likely to turn into skin cancer. These precancerous growths typically appear as small, scaly, crusty spots or patches on areas that get frequent sun exposure (like the backs of your hands or shoulders).

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. They often form in sun-exposed areas, like your ears, face, and scalp. Basal cell carcinomas are typically pearly or shiny bumps. You may notice that you have a small sore that won’t heal and continues to crust over and bleed.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinomas, also caused by UV exposure, appear as thickened wart-like growths. These cancerous growths can be red, scaly, and have irregular borders. Squamous cell carcinomas tend to crust and bleed, but never fully heal.

Malignant melanoma

Considered the most deadly form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma often surfaces as an abnormal growth or mole that has an irregular shape. Melanoma growths can have varying colors and scalloped borders. You might also notice that the growth continues to change in color, size, and shape.

Do I have an increased risk of skin cancer?

Although frequent UV exposure from the sun or tanning beds is typically the leading cause of skin cancer, you may have an increased risk for other reasons, too. Your risk of developing skin cancer is higher if you have:

• Light-colored skin, hair, and eyes
• Family history of skin cancer
• Multiple moles or freckles
• History of sunburns

Skin cancer development is also on the rise for men and women who have decreased immune system function due to chronic disease or treatments for other types of cancer. Because skin cancer is so prevalent, prevention is key. The team of top-rated dermatologists at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh recommends scheduling annual skin check exams.

How is skin cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosing skin cancer involves taking a skin biopsy. This simple in-office procedure begins with thoroughly numbing your targeted area. Your dermatologist shaves or cuts the tissues that are concerning and may also remove some of the healthy tissues surrounding the growth.

The team at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh sends your skin specimen off to the lab for in-depth analysis. It takes about 7-10 days to get your results back, and you’ll be scheduled for a follow-up visit around this time.

If your skin biopsy was normal, you do not need further treatment, aside from your annual preventive skin checks. But if your skin biopsy came back as abnormal, with precancerous or cancerous cells, your dedicated dermatologist at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh talks with you about your treatment options, which can include skin excisions, radiology, or chemotherapy.

Frequent sun exposure and tanning account for over 90% of skin cancer cases, although family history and health problems also play roles. Because so many types of skin cancer can be prevented, Angela Macri, DO as well as the rest of the team, offer comprehensive skin checks at Integrated Dermatology of North Raleigh. They can perform skin biopsies and even skin cancer treatments right in this Raleigh, North Carolina, clinic. Dr. Macri is certified by the American Board of Dermatology to practice Mohs Micrographic Surgery.

Book your skin cancer evaluation online, or call the office directly to schedule.