Screening, diagnosis, and treatment for the three main types of skin cancer.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, typically appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat flesh-colored scar-like lesion, or a sore that won't heal. It grows slowly and rarely spreads beyond the skin, but left untreated it can grow deeper and damage surrounding tissue.
Cumulative sun exposure is the primary cause, along with a history of tanning bed use or significant childhood sunburns.
Daily sunscreen and sun-protective clothing are the most effective preventive measures.
Surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery for areas like the face, topical chemotherapy for superficial cases, or radiation for select patients.
Myth: A sore that won't heal is probably nothing serious. Fact: A sore or bump that bleeds, crusts, and doesn't fully heal within a few weeks should always be evaluated for basal cell carcinoma.
If you notice a new, pearly bump or a sore that doesn't heal within several weeks.