Get a Clearer Picture of Skin Cancer
- Posted on: Jul 15 2021
Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent health concerns of our time. According to statistics, approximately 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime. What is so confounding about the high rates of skin cancer that we see today is that this disease is preventable. Part of our work in the field of dermatology is to improve patient outcomes in whatever ways possible. One way we can do this is to spread awareness about the signs of skin cancer. Another is to increase patients’ knowledge about prevention. Finally, we can improve patient outcomes through innovative skin cancer treatments. In our Sarasota office, Dr. Trent does this by performing Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery. Here, though, we discuss some of the questions patients have about skin cancer.
Skin Cancer May Not Look Like You’d Expect
When a person hears the word cancer, the mind forms certain images. Many people have seen images of advanced skin cancer lesions and the damage they cause. These images can be alarming and also misleading because they may portray skin cancer as obvious on a cosmetic level. This disease is anything but. In many instances, a new skin cancer growth resembles a flesh-colored bump or pimple. It may look like a fleshy growth. Sure, skin cancer lesions may eventually become large, crusty, rough, and may ooze. But treatment could be administered well before the disease reaches this point. If you have a waxy bump, red spot, dark spot, or changing mole, schedule a skin cancer screening with Dr. Trent. Even better, schedule a screening before you notice signs of potential skin cancer!
Skin Sensations can be Telling, Too
Skin cancer does not only present visible clues, it may also show signs through sensation. Patients sometimes ask if skin cancer will itch or hurt. The answer is that it might. Skin cancer may feel a number of different ways. Some patients report a tingling sensation, some say that a particular mole or growth hurts in some say. Generally, any change in physical appearance or sensation should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Overlooking what seem to be subtle changes in the skin could prevent the early care that is so critical in successful skin cancer treatment.
Our staff is dedicated to offering outstanding medical and cosmetic dermatology care. With summer getting into full-swing, there is no time like the present to schedule a full-body skin cancer screening with your board-certified dermatologist. To schedule yours, call our Sarasota office at (941) 379-6647.
Posted in: Mohs Surgery, Skin Cancer
