All effective skin cancer treatments start with an accurate
diagnosis. If you’re worried about a spot, schedule an appointment with
Dr. Christine Lee. Dr. Lee will be monitoring for changes during annual
skin checks. These exams allow an early diagnosis so critical to
successful treatment.
If it’s worrisome to you, it’s worrisome to Dr. Lee. Skin cancer symptoms identified and treated in Walnut Creek CA at The Skin and Laser Treatment Institute vary by the type of cancer. Some symptoms:
- Actinic Keratoses— These precancerousgrowths resemble scaly, dry pink or red patches. They’re likely to form on the head, neck, hands, and forearms due to years of cumulative sun exposure.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma — Untreated AKs can evolve into SCCs, which often look like firm red bumps or scaling, and patches or growths that never seem to fully heal. These cancers have the potential to spread, and cause damage and disfigurement.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma — The most common type of skin cancer, BCCs are flesh-colored bumps or pink patches that frequently develop on the head, neck and arms but can appear most anywhere, including the legs and belly. They, too, can spread, and without treatment may invade surrounding tissues, nerves, and bones.
The deadliest of skin cancers, melanoma, has its own list of symptoms. They’re often summed up with the ABCDE’s. Have you noticed new spots or recent changes to existing moles? Warning signs include:
- A – Asymmetry – one half doesn’t mirror the other.
- B – Borders that are irregular, or poorly-defined
- C – Colors that vary, such as brown, black, red, and blue shades
- D – Diameters of six millimeters-plus, roughly pencil eraser-sized
- E – Evolving size, shape, color, or behavior
Dr. Lee has advanced techniques to treat skin cancers, including Mohs Micrographic Surgery for complex or recurrent growths. Call (925) 500-1180.