Cancerous Lesions
Our dermatologists provide precision surgical removal of all types of cancerous skin lesions, including basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer and melanoma.
Detection and Treatment of Skin Cancer
The easiest way to spot skin cancer early is by doing a full skin exam once a month. It should be done while you are fully unclothed, in front of a mirror, and under a bright light. Start with your scalp and face and work your way down your entire body. Be sure to check your front and back, especially in the sun-exposed areas. Look for any new growths, dark lesions, bleeding lesions, or changing moles.
Self Check ABCDEs
An easy way to remember what to look for when doing the self-check for melanoma is to remember your ABCDEs.
- Asymmetry: If you draw a line down the middle of the lesion and both sides don't match in size and shape, then it needs to be evaluated by a dermatologist.
- Border: Irregular, poorly defined borders may be a worrisome sign.
- Color: Varying colors, such as differing shades of brown or black can be concerning.
- Diameter: Melanomas are usually larger than the size of a pencil eraser (1/4 inch), but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected.
- Evolving: Any change in shape, size, color, or elevation, or a new symptom, such as itching, crusting or bleeding, is cause for concern and requires evaluation by your dermatologist.
For most people with "typical" sun exposure, performing the ABCDE exam every month, in conjunction with a yearly exam by your physician, should be adequate to catch potential skin cancer. If you have had skin cancer in the past, ask your dermatologist how often you should be followed, as it will vary depending on type and past treatment. But regardless of your history, if you find a lesion that causes concern, make an appointment with a dermatologist immediately to have it evaluated.
So, what happens if you find something worrisome and you make an appointment with a dermatologist? The first thing they will do is obtain information about the lesion and perform an examination. A biopsy (sampling of the lesion) may be suggested if the lesion appears suspicious.
The three most common types of skin cancer are:
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Treatment options depend on a variety of factors including the type of skin cancer, its characteristics (depth, size, etc.) and the location on the body. It is important to remember that skin cancer is a very common health concern, but there are healthy steps you can take in order to decrease your risk.
To schedule an appointment for an examination by one of our providers, call us at one of our locations listed below.
Latest News
Dermatology Associates welcomes Dr. Paige Winter
Dermatology Associates is pleased to announce that Dr. Paige Winter joined our practice August 1, 2024.
Meet Paige Winter, M.D.
Dermatology Associates welcomes Dr. Lauren Tisdale
Dermatology Associates is pleased to announce that Dr. Lauren Tisdale joined our practice in October, 2024.
Meet Lauren Tisdale, M.D.
More News
Read our Fall Newsletter!
We encourage you to read and download the Fall 2024 Newsletter from Dermatology Associates of the Tricities and learn about our ongoing efforts to enhance Patient care.
View Our Fall Newsletter
Staff Picks
Amy Burton, LE
Kingsport, TN Cosmetic Center
Amy's Staff Pick is SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF because "it helps with the texture and tone of her skin while protecting it."
View Amy's Pick
Articles
Mohs Surgeon, Dr. Erin Reid featured in Tri-Cities Medical News
Health and Wellness Magazine
View all Health and Wellness Articles
Dermatology Associates advances the science of skin cancer research by donating funds to the Skin Cancer Foundation . We want our patients to know that we understand the burden of skin cancer and want to offer both excellent treatment now and look forward to scientific advances in the future.
Visit SkinCancer.org
