Skin cancer occurs when damaged skin cells begin to
divide and grow in an abnormal and uncontrolled way. This uncontrolled growth
usually results from unrepaired DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV)
radiation from sunlight, tanning beds, or sun lamps. Over time, these
mutations lead to malignant tumors that can invade surrounding tissue or
spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.
The three most common types are basal cell carcinoma
(BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. BCC and SCC are typically
found on sun-exposed areas and grow slowly. Melanoma, though less common, is
far more dangerous and can spread quickly.
Skin cancer can affect people of all skin tones and
may appear as a new spot, a changing mole, a sore that won’t heal, or a patch
of rough, red, or crusting skin. It most often develops in the epidermis—the
skin’s outermost layer—though deeper layers can also be involved.
A – Asymmetry: One half of the spot doesn’t match the
other
B – Border: Edges are irregular, notched, or blurred
C – Color: Uneven color or multiple shades
D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (pencil eraser)
E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, or color over
time
Treatment
begins with a skin biopsy to identify the cancer type. For localized basal and
squamous cell cancers, surgical excision or Mohs surgery is typically performed
with excellent outcomes.
For melanoma
or more aggressive tumors, additional treatments like sentinel lymph node
biopsy, immunotherapy, targeted drug therapy, or radiation may be required.
Charlotte
Dermatology works with patients at every stage of diagnosis and care—from full
skin exams and pathology to treatment planning and follow-up. Preventative
strategies like sun protection, regular check-ups, and patient education are
emphasized throughout all our Charlotte-area locations.
THE TREATMENTS BELOW CAN HELP WITH SKIN CANCER:
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