Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. The good news is that when identified early, most skin cancers are highly treatable.
At Treiber Dermatology, we believe education and early detection are essential components of maintaining lifelong skin health. Our physicians provide comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and individualized treatment recommendations with a thoughtful and patient-centered approach.
Patients throughout New York and Connecticut trust Treiber Dermatology for expertise in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology and for care that prioritizes both medical outcomes and quality of life.
Skin cancer develops when skin cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably.
The most common cause is cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure from sunlight and tanning beds, although genetics and other factors also play an important role.
Risk factors may include:
- Significant lifetime sun exposure
- History of blistering sunburns
- Fair skin, light eyes, or light hair
- Tanning bed use
- Personal or family history of skin cancer
- Multiple moles or atypical moles
- Weakened immune system
While some risk factors cannot be changed, routine monitoring and prevention can significantly reduce risk.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer.
It often appears as:
- A pearly or shiny bump
- A pink or scaly patch
- A sore that repeatedly bleeds or does not heal
- A spot that slowly enlarges
Although basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads elsewhere in the body, it can continue growing locally if untreated. It can be treated with topical creams, surgical excision, destruction of the lesion or Mohs surgery.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer.
It may present as:
- Rough or scaly patches
- Thickened growths
- Tender bumps
- Lesions that bleed or fail to heal
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important because certain forms can become more aggressive, though the vast majority are easily treatable with topical creams, surgical excisoin or Mohs surgery.
Melanoma
Melanoma is less common but potentially more serious due to its ability to spread internally.
Warning signs are lesions that may have:
- Asymmetry
- Border irregularity
- Multiple colors
- Larger Diameter
- Evolution/Change over time
Patients should also look for the “ugly duckling sign”—a spot that appears different from surrounding moles. Melanoma is treated with surgical excision and in some cases requires systemic monitoring and therapies, in conjunction with a medical oncologist.
Diagnosis begins with a careful skin examination. If an area appears concerning, a skin biopsy may be recommended. During this procedure, a small sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to determine whether the lesion is benign, precancerous, or cancerous. Once a diagnosis is established, treatment recommendations are individualized based on the type and location of the lesion.
Skin cancer prevention includes:
- Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use
- Protective clothing
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Routine skin monitoring
- Regular skin examinations
Early detection remains one of the most effective tools for maintaining long-term skin health.
Schedule an Evaluation at Treiber Dermatology
Whether you have noticed a changing spot, have questions about your risk, or are seeking expert evaluation, Treiber Dermatology provides comprehensive skin cancer diagnosis and personalized care. To schedule an appointment, contact Treiber Dermatology for a consultation.
