Skin Cancer in Charlotte - What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is a form of cancer that is oftentimes not painful, but can still be concerning and deadly if not addressed. In fact, it is the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 58,000 individuals were diagnosed with skin cancer in 2007, and over 8,000 individuals died from it. But how do you determine if you have skin cancer? What are some skin cancer symptoms that you should watch out for?

Skin cancer symptoms typically involve a change in your skin or a portion of your skin on your body. For example, you may have a sore on your skin that won't seem to heal. Or perhaps you have a new growth or spot that develops. Additionally, moles and skin tags that are on your body may change in color or shape. Skin cancer is oftentimes found on areas of your body that receive extensive sun exposure, such as the face, shoulders, and arms, but can be found anywhere on the body.

Any time there are changes to your skin such as these, it is essential that you go to the dermatologist to find out if skin cancer may be the cause. Diagnosing skin cancer in its earliest stages will help you and your dermatologist remove and/or treat the skin cancer itself. If you have a suspicious mole, Dr. Darst will do a biopsy. The biopsy is then sent to be processed and read by a Dermatopathologist , someone who specializes in the interpretation of skin diseases. Treatments may vary, depending on the size and area of the suspected cancer, but typically involve removing the cancerous area via excision or Mohs micrographic surgery. Other tests may be necessary to determine if the cancer has spread elsewhere in the body.

Concerned that you may have skin cancer symptoms? If you live in the Charlotte, South Charlotte, South Park, Waxhaw, Weddington or Monroe areas, call Dr. Darst of Darst Dermatology today for a full body examination. Acting fast when you notice skin cancer symptoms can help save your life!

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/darstdermatologycom/~3/16jjEXBWid8/skin-cancer-in-charlotte.html

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