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Skin Cancers & Tumor Excisions

Skin cancer, malignant tumors, refers to the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of skin cells, often caused by DNA damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight to tanning beds. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer globally, and it can develop anywhere on the body. 

Skin cancers are broadly classified into 3 main types: 

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1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) [**Most Common**]

Pearly or waxy bumps, sometimes resembling a scar, and often develops on areas frequently exposed to the sun - like the face or neck. It grows slowly and rarely spreads but can cause local damage if left untreated.

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2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

​Red, scaly, or crusted patch that may bleed easily, typically found on sun-exposed areas such as the hands, face, and ears. It can spread to deeper layers of skin and other tissues if left untreated.

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3. Melanoma [**Most Dangerous**]

​Dark, irregular mole or pigmented patch. It can occur anywhere on the body, including areas not typically exposed to the sun. Further, it can rapidly spread to other organs and tissues, making it more aggressive and life-threatening skin cancer type.

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Skin cancer occurs when skin cells develop DNA mutations that disrupt their growth cycle. UV radiation from sun exposure or tanning beds is the primary cause of these mutations, though other factors also play a role:

  • UV exposure

  • Genetics

  • Weakened immune system​

​Symptoms of skin cancer varies greatly depending on the type of skin cancer, but generally includes:

  • New growths - any new or usual growth, mole or sore that does not heal.

  • Change in moles - changes in size, shape, color, or texture of an existing mole (following the ABCDE rule - Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, Evolution)

  • Scaly or crusty patches - these patches may bleed or feel rough.

  • Painful or tender lumps - especially if associated with bleeding or itching.

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​How can we help you?

​Treatment of skin cancer depends on the size, location and stage of cancer. They may include:

  • Surgical Excision - cancerous lesions and some surrounding tissues are surgically removed.

  • Cryotherapy - using liquid nitrogen to freeze cancer cells.

  • Topical Medications - creams or gels for superficial skin cancer, which boost immune response against cancer cells.

  • Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy - particularly for melanoma, these drugs help to specifically target cancer cells or help immune system to recognize them and destroy them

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​Diagnosis for Skin Cancers: 

Diagnosing Skin Cancers may include:

  • Physical Examination & Biopsy - suspicious moles or growths are removed in part or entirely for examination under a microscope. Additional imaging tests or sentinel lymph node biopsies may be necessary to check for the spread of cancer in cases of melanoma or advanced SCC.

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