Skin Cancers

Skin cancer is the most common skin cancer in the United States and it can affect anyone,including darker skinned individuals. The most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Most skin cancers are caused by sun exposure and tanning bed use, but skin cancer can occur in non-sun-exposed skin. Any new growth or changing skin lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist. If caught early, most skin cancers can be cured. The treatment depends on the size, location, type of skin cancer, and your medical history. The most common treatment for skin cancer is surgical removal. Other options include electrodessication and curettage (ED&C), radiation, topical chemotherapy creams, and photodynamic therapy.