Skin Cancer
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Integrated Dermatology of Bridgeport
Medical Dermatologists & Cosmetic Dermatologists located in Trumbull, CT
One in five people will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the time they turn 70. If you have a suspicious mole, lesion, or change in your skin that you want examined, visit Brookside Dermatology Associates in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The team provides expert diagnosis and in-office surgical procedures to remove tissue samples for testing and treatment. To schedule a complete skin exam, book an appointment online or call the office today.
Skin Cancer Q & A
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is a form of cancer that develops when the cells in your skin grow in an abnormal pattern. This may cause moles to become larger in size or change in color, patches of darkened, flaky skin to develop, or open sores to form in your skin.
The most common places for skin cancer to show up are on your:
- Face, especially the forehead and bridge of the nose
- Chest
- Ears
- Arms
- Shoulders
- Hands
- Feet
- Upper back
If you notice any unusual changes to your skin, it’s best to be evaluated by the doctors at Brookside Dermatology Associates right away.
What causes skin cancer?
Skin cancer develops when your skin is frequently exposed to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. UV radiation causes changes in the cells of your skin and increases the production of melanin, which can lead to a tan but also darken the overall pigment in your skin.
Over time, these cellular changes can begin to occur more rapidly as cancer develops. If you’re at risk of developing skin cancer, either because you have fair skin or are in the sun frequently, the team recommends daily sun protection, like wearing sunscreen on all exposed skin, wearing a hat, and wearing clothing to cover your skin and protect it from the sun.
What does skin cancer look like?
There are several different types of skin cancer that have unique appearances. Skin cancer types include:
Actinic keratosis (AK)
AK causes precancerous patches of dry, scaly skin. AK is most common in people with fair skin and can take many years to develop.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
BCC looks like a pearl-like bump or pinkish patch of skin. It’s the most common type of skin cancer and occurs in people of all skin colors.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
SCC looks like a firm red bump, scaly patch, or sore that heals and the reopens. SCC is the second most common form of skin cancer and can develop in people of all skin colors.
Melanoma
Melanoma appears as changes in size or color in one of your existing moles or develops as a new dark spot on your skin. It’s the most dangerous form of skin cancer and requires specific treatment to prevent it from spreading.
Early detection and treatment of skin cancer is the best way to prevent complications of the condition.
Set up a skin cancer screening for suspicious skin changes today — call Brookside Dermatology Associates or schedule a visit online.
