OF MID OHIO DERMATOLOGYASSOCIATES
  • 480 Glessner Ave., Mansfield, OH 44903
  • 1063 Harding Memorial Pkwy, Marion, Oh 43302
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Identifying Skin Cancer

If you’re concerned about a spot on your skin, you should get it examined immediately. Nearly 10,000 people are diagnosed with skin cancer in the United States every single day, which makes it the most common form of cancer in the nation. Our specialized team of dermatologists at the Dermatology Associates of Mid Ohio can detect any of the three types of skin cancer, and if diagnosed in the early stages, we can maximize your chances of recovery.

Keeping You Cancer Free

If you’re living in the Mansfield, Bucyrus, and Marion areas, we suggest making a skin cancer examination a part of your normal health care regimen. This will help give you peace of mind and it could save your life. The sooner skin cancer is detected, the sooner we can work on a treatment plan personalized to every patient. Our goal is to keep you 100% free of skin cancer with non-surgical treatments. Call to schedule an appointment for a spot examination with us.

Understanding Skin Cancer

The most common types of skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. If not removed completely, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma can enlarge from the point where they first occur and can invade and destroy structures in their path. Basal cell carcinoma is unlikely to spread to distant parts of the body (metastasize). However, some squamous cell carcinomas can metastasize. These types of skin cancers are generally recognized in their early stages and are therefore easily cured.

On the other hand, malignant melanoma may be life-threatening if not treated early. It usually appears as a brownish-black spot or bumps on the skin which enlarges and sometimes bleeds. Sometimes melanomas arise in moles that have been present for many years.

Skin Cancer Subtypes

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma: This is a more common and less dangerous form of skin cancer. It grows slowly and will appear as a dry, uneven area of the head, neck, or torso. Most of the time, these spots will be sore and seem to refuse to heal properly.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Still less dangerous than Melanoma but still requires immediate attention from a dermatologist. This form of cancer is prone to spreading to other parts of the body. These spots are frequently detected in sun-exposed skin areas and will continue to grow over several months. That is why it is detrimental to wear sunscreen when exposed to the outdoors.
  • Melanoma: This is the most serious. It can grow quickly and become life-threatening within 30 days if left untreated. It generally appears as a flat spot with an uneven outline. This spot can be a multitude of colors such as black, brown, blue, grey, or red. Melanoma is most dangerous when this area evolves into a raised bump from the start.