Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed each year. The three major types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Actinic keratosis is a pre-malignant skin condition that is also very prevalent. Regardless of appearance, changes in a preexisting skin growth, development of a new growth, or open sore that fails to heal should prompt an immediate visit to your doctor. Often, all that is needed is a simple surgical procedure or application of a topical agent to remove the skin cancer. Together with Dermatologists, we diagnose, remove, and repair skin cancer. We are extensively trained in surgical wound management for skin cancers of the face and neck.

What to look for - Doctors recommend that self examination is very important in controlling skin cancer. Patients should look for the following:

A. Asymmetry - patients should evaluate suspected areas for asymmetric borders.

B. Border - patients should evaluate suspected areas for border changes (ie color or texture).

C. Color changes - patients should evaluate color changes within the suspected areas.

D. Diameter - patients should evaluate the diameter of the suspected area.

Persistent growth or change should bring concern. Areas larger than the diameter of a pencil eraser should be evaluated.