When diagnosed with skin cancer, the first thing that a doctor will typically do is identify the type that has affected the patient. Some types are more serious than others, and the type will determine the method of treatment used. If you have discovered that you have skin cancer, do not panic. Understanding what you have and what you need to do next should be your first step in dealing with this unsettling form of skin cancer. That means scheduling a consultation at Metro Dermatology.
Understanding Skin Cancer
When you hear the diagnosis of skin cancer, it is referring to a condition that affects your skin. There are rarer forms of the disease that may affect the mucous membranes of your body and eyes. When it occurs in your skin, it affects your melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that produce the pigmentation in your skin, your eyes, and your hair. When melanocytes become cancerous, they produce too many cells. Obvious changes can occur to your skin, such as moles that were not there before. Otherwise, existing moles may become larger or have undefined lines that expand beyond the original mole.
If you have an abundance of moles covering your body, you are in a higher risk group to develop skin cancer. If you have a mole or spot on your skin that is asymmetrical, you could have the disease. Changes in color, such as moles that turn blue, red, black, or white, could indicate a more serious concern. Anything over the diameter of a pencil eraser is a sign for potential skin cancer as well. If you see any of these marks on your skin or notice spots that are changing, the best thing you can do is have them evaluated as soon as possible.
Early Intervention is Key
The main reason that cancer is such a concern is that it can easily spread to other organs in your body. If it is not detected in time, it can lead to death. The earlier that it is identified, the sooner it can be effectively treated before moving beyond the site where it began. When skin cancer is caught in its early stages, the least involved forms of treatment can take care of your condition. If it spreads, surgery may be necessary.
Learn More During a Consultation
If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, make an appointment at Metro Dermatology to talk to our team about your condition. We will help you to stay on top of your condition so that you reduce the chance of letting it get the best of you. With early detection and treatment, you can beat skin cancer. We have offices in Elmhurst, Flushing, Englewood and the Bronx.
