Skin Cancer Treatments Specialist

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. With early treatment, you have a very high likelihood of cure. Consult the dermatology team at Southwest Michigan Dermatology to get the very best treatments, including the gold standard of Mohs surgery, for your case. Call the Portage, Michigan, office or request an appointment online for a skin check or to evaluate a suspicious mole or lesion.

What are the types of skin cancer?

Skin cancer affects the cells in your skin. It can develop differently; certain types are more serious than others. 

The three primary types of skin cancer are:

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It usually develops because of exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Basal cell is a very slow growing cancer.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. This type of skin cancer grows in sun-exposed areas of your skin. It does have the potential to spread if not treated.

Melanoma

Melanoma can be an aggressive type of skin cancer that begins in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the skin.

What are the symptoms of skin cancer?

The symptoms of skin cancer depend on the type you’ve developed. Routine self-skin checks and regular professional checks identify suspicious lesions that could be cancerous.

If you see a notable change in skin texture or color, consult with the specialists at Southwest Michigan Dermatology. You should also schedule an evaluation if you notice symptoms, including: 

• Dark colored moles
• Recurrent scabs that hurt or bleed
• Changes in the size, color, or shape of moles

Early skin cancer detection makes preventing the spread and associated complications easier. 

How is skin cancer diagnosed?

When you come in for an appointment with your provider, they will evaluate the area. A biopsy can be performed to determine if the area is cancerous or not. A biopsy takes a small sample of the area and then it is sent out to pathology. When the results arrive back your provider will review them. If the area is cancerous, they will decide the best course of treatment for you.

What are skin cancer treatments?

Southwest Michigan Dermatology offers both surgical options (Excision, ED&C, and Mohs) along with the non-surgical option of Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy.

Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type of skin cancer it is, its growth patterns, and where it is located on your body. Your provider will give a recommendation on the best course of treatment for you. 

Depending on the depth, melanoma may be referred to a surgical oncologist for removal and treatment.

If you have a diagnosed skin cancer or an area of skin you are concerned about, contact us by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.