Early Detection and Expert Care: Your Guide to Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer affects one in five people at some point in their lives. With early detection and treatment at Eternal Dermatology & Aesthetic Center, better outcomes are possible. Our dermatologist for skin cancer screenings, Dr. Ife Rodney, is available in the Columbia, Maryland, area. She is a skin cancer expert with extensive training and experience in diagnosis and treatment.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal types of skin cells. It happens when unrepaired DNA damage — typically caused by exposure to the sun or tanning beds — triggers mutations in your skin cells that turn into cancerous tumors.
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to avoid exposure to UV radiation. Don’t use tanning beds, and wear sunscreen daily. If you’re out in the sun for long periods, reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours and choose clothing that covers your skin, including a hat, long sleeves, and pants.
What are the different types of skin cancer?
Skin cancer types are categorized based on the kind of cells they’re made of and their appearance. Anyone can get skin cancer, though it’s most common in people with light skin.
Different types of skin cancer include:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC). BCC is the most common type of skin cancer and appears as a flesh-colored, pearl-like bump or pinkish skin patch.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). SCC, the second most common type of skin cancer, appears as a red, firm bump, scaly patch, or sore that partially heals and reopens.
- Actinic keratosis (AK). AK are dry, or rough, scaly patches. About 10% of these pre-cancerous lesions can turn into skin cancer.
- Melanoma. Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It may develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin.
There are other less common forms of skin cancer. But overall, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun and pay attention to any unusual changes, especially moles that grow or change in shape or color or new dark skin patches.
How is skin cancer diagnosed?
You should perform skin checks on yourself often to look for any changes in your skin. During your visit with your dermatologist, she will conduct a thorough skin exam of your entire body.
If she notices any areas of concern or you have a suspicious mole, Dr. Rodney further examines that area of skin and may collect a small sample of the lesion for testing. Based on her exam and lab testing, she determines your diagnosis.
How is skin cancer treated?
Skin cancer is treated based on your diagnosis. There are many options for treatment, and Dr. Rodney discusses which choices can best help you. Common treatments include:
- Excision surgery
- Curettage and electrodesiccation
- Mohs surgery
- Cryosurgery
- Radiation
- Photodynamic therapy
- Medicated creams
- Prescription medications
If you suspect you have skin cancer, call the office or book an appointment online today!
Call Dr. Ife Rodney and her team at Eternal Dermatology and Aesthetic Center of Fulton, Maryland, today at (301) 479-6544 to request a visit to her office.
Because First Impressions Are Eternal
Dr. Ife Rodney is double board-certified, highly rated, and takes a patient-centered and customized approach to care. She is a top acne expert and cosmetic dermatologist in Columbia and Howard County, MD. Contact us today to learn how Dr. Rodney can help you look and feel your best.