Did you know that skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States? Skin cancer is the growth of abnormal cells caused by damage to the skin’s DNA. Most skin cancers are caused by the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays and the use of tanning beds. If caught early, skin cancer can be effectively treated.

Our board-certified dermatologists are highly trained and experienced at identifying skin cancer at its earliest stages, which can be life-saving. The most common types of skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Melanoma is less common overall but is much more likely to spread throughout the body and lead to death if advanced. This is why early detection is essential. If melanoma is found early and treated, the prognosis is excellent.

During a skin check with our doctors, you can expect a thorough examination from head to toe. We often employ the use of dermoscopy, which is an advanced tool that helps identify early skin cancers. If any spot looks suspicious, a relatively painless biopsy will be performed. During a biopsy, a sample of the spot will be taken and evaluated microscopically by a board-certified dermatopathologist. If the diagnosis is skin cancer, our doctors will discuss treatment options.