Skin Cancer Treatment in Houston, TX

What Is a Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells. This is caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations. These mutations lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors.

Skin cancer can occur on any part of the body, but the most common places are areas that get a lot of sun exposure, such as the face, neck, and arms.

What Are The Types of Skin Cancer

According to the ACS, there are three main types:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This is the most common type of skin cancer. BCCs often look like a flesh-colored round growth, pearl-like bump or a pinkish patch of skin and are found on areas of the skin that get sun exposure, such as the head, neck, arms and hands.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

It is the second most common type of skin cancer but it is more likely than basal cell carcinoma to spread to other parts of the body. It is usually found on areas of the skin that get sun exposure, such as the face, neck, arms, chest, rim of the ear and back.

Melanoma

This is the most serious type of skin cancer. It can grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body. Knowing the ABCDE warning signs can help you find an early melanoma.

What are the warning signs for skin cancer

A mole may be a sign of skin cancer if it has irregular borders or an asymmetrical shape or if it changes in color, shape, size, or height. The ABCDE guide can help you remember what to watch for:

• A is for asymmetrical shape. One half is unlike the other half.
• B is for border. Look for moles with irregular, notched, or scalloped borders.
• C is for color. Look for growths that have changed colors, have many colors, or have uneven color.
• D is for diameter. Look for new growth in a mole larger than 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters)
• E is for evolving. Watch for moles that change in size, shape, color or height. Moles may also evolve to develop new signs and symptoms, such as itchiness or bleeding.

What Are the Causes of Skin Cancer

These things can contribute to the causes of skin cancer:

• Exposure to ultraviolet or UV light radiation from the sun or tanning beds
• Fair skin that burns easily, freckles, and red hair
• A history of sunburns
• A family history of skin cancer
• Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic
• Exposure to radiation

Skin cancer occurs when errors (Mutations) occur in the DNA of skin cells. The mutations cause the cells to grow out of control and form a mass of cancer cells.

What Are the Symptoms of Skin Cancer

• A change in the size, shape, or color of a mole
• A new mole
• A sore that doesn’t heal
• Itching, burning, or bleeding of the skin

How Is Skin Cancer Treated

• Surgery: This is the most common treatment for skin cancer. The cancerous tissue is removed with a scalpel.
• Mohs surgery: This is a type of surgery where the cancerous tissue is removed layer by layer until only healthy tissue remains.
• Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy waves to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Photodynamic therapy: This treatment uses light to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: This is a treatment that uses drugs to target specific genes or proteins found in cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: This is a treatment that uses the body’s immune system to kill cancer cells.

Why Choose Team Dermatology for Skin Cancer Treatment Services

Below are a few reasons why patients trust us:

• Team Dermatology has a team of board-certified dermatologists who are experts in diagnosing and treating skin cancer.
• We are able to refer our patients to additional specialists if needed
• We offer the latest technologies and treatments for skin cancer.
• We offer a variety of services, such as skin cancer screenings, mole removal, and surgery.
• It has five convenient clinics in the Houston area.

Team Dermatology is the leading provider of dermatologic care in the Houston area.

How To Prevent Skin Cancer

• Seek shade, especially between 10 am to 4 pm
• Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• Wear protective clothing, such as a hat and long-sleeved shirt
• Avoid tanning beds
• Check your skin regularly for changes

What Is the Prognosis for Skin Cancer

The prognosis for skin cancer depends on the type, size, and location of cancer. Most skin cancers can be cured if they are caught early.

If you have any symptoms of skin cancer, please see one of our board certified dermatologists. Early detection is key to a successful outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine the treatment that is right for me?

The treatment that is right for you will depend on the type, size, and location of your cancer. Your doctor will be able to help you determine the best treatment option for your individual case.

What are the side effects of skin cancer treatment?

The side effects of skin cancer treatment vary depending on the type of treatment you receive. Some common side effects of skin cancer treatment include fatigue, pain, swelling, and redness. Your doctor will be able to tell you what to expect from your specific treatment.

What should I expect after treatment?

After treatment, you will be closely monitored by your doctor. You may have regular checkups and skin cancer screenings. Your doctor will let you know when you can resume your normal activities.