New Orleans area dermatologist describes melanoma

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When patients in the New Orleans area are diagnosed with skin cancer, they are educated on the type of cancer that they have. Skin cancer is grouped into two types: melanoma and non-melanoma. Non-melanoma includes basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. These are not as aggressive as melanoma. Melanoma is actually the most dangerous type of skin cancer because it is caused by a mutation trigged from damaged skin cells that multiply quickly to develop malignant tumors that easily metastasize.

Melanoma can take many different forms, but in many cases, they develop from moles or resemble a mole. This is why patients who have moles on their bodies that begin to change in color, shape, or appearance are urged to visit a dermatologist for an examination. Dr. Mary Lupo and the dedicated staff of the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology provide skin cancer screenings and encourage patients to have them done regularly, at least once a year to monitor for any abnormalities that may signify the development of skin cancer.

Melanoma can be a variety of colors including white, pink, red, purple, skin-colored, black, or brown. They may be fatal if patients do not receive a proper diagnosis and seek immediate treatment. Studies by the American Cancer Society have revealed that approximately 120,000 cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year. Nearly 10,000 individuals in the United States die each year from the condition. The numbers are staggering and should not be ignored.

Most skin cancers are a result of UV exposure. Patients who have had intense or occasional sunburns are at a higher risk for developing skin cancer, as well as those who are genetically predisposed. Tanning bed use is responsible for an increased incidence of melanoma in females under age 30.

In most situations where melanoma and non-melanoma cancers are present, patients need to seek medical treatment for removing the cancerous skin cells. Dr. Mary Lupo may suggest traditional surgical excision available in her office, or may provide a referral for a treatment known as Mohs micrographic surgery. Most patients will undergo outpatient office surgery to remove the areas of skin cancer, and will then discuss prevention to keep the condition from reoccurring.