The Best Skin Cancer Treatment in Little River, SC
Who is at risk for skin cancer? Everyone.
Atlantic Dermatology treats the residents of Little River, SC for all different types of skin cancer including cancerous moles, precancerous skin cells and actinic keratosis. We offer skin cancer screenings, early skin cancer detection and the latest advancements in skin cancer treatment. If you are in or near Little River and have questions or concerns about skin cancer, contact our office for an appointment.
Begin Your Best Skin Health Today
Call To Schedule an Appointment - 843-399-9965
Treating the Various Skin Cancer Types
Different types of skin cancer require different types of skin cancer treatment. While early stage skin cancer has the best response, our experienced skin cancer specialists work with advanced skin cancer and skin cancer spots in all stages.
Your best defense against skin cancer is being aware of early skin cancer signs and receiving a regular skin cancer screening. Here at Atlantic Dermatology, we evaluate, diagnose and provide treatment options for:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- Malignant Melanoma
- Precancerous Skin Lesions
- Actinic Keratosis
Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma
The most common type of skin cancer and the slowest growing type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma. It often appears on the face, arms, hands and other places, which see the sun a lot.
- Skin spots to be aware of include:
- Pearly type lumps which range from flesh colored to brown
- A taut or shiny area that has a scar like appearance
- A reddish patch, which may itch and will not heal
- A raised area with or without blood vessels
- An open sore that bleeds, heals and returns
Early stage basal cell carcinoma is easily treated. This type of skin cancer rarely spreads and rarely results in death, however, left untreated, basal cell cancer can invade surrounding tissue. Surgical removal is often the best way to treat basal cell carcinoma.
For Basal Cell Carcinoma treatment or to schedule an appointment for a skin cancer check, call our office at 843-399-9965.
Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is a dangerous type of skin cancer because it can grow deeply and spread. Almost always curable if caught early and surgically removed, favorable squamous cell carcinoma prognosis is dependent on paying attention to changes within your skin.
Found anywhere on the body, squamous cell skin cancer can resemble cancerous warts and skin cancer bumps with a central depression. We ask Little River residents to watch for the following warning signs:
- A scaly, crusty patch that is red and bleeds
- A bleeding lump, which may grow quickly and includes a central depression
- An open sore, which lasts for weeks and bleeds
- A growth that is scaly, rough and resembles a wart
Squamous cell skin cancer must be taken seriously because left untreated, it can be deadly.
Treatment of Malignant Melanoma 23
Malignant Melanoma is a rare skin cancer, which most often presents itself as cancerous moles. It is also the most deadly skin cancer accounting for one death every hour. For this reason, it is critical to stay on top of moles - new and existing. Keep an eye out for:
- Moles that change in color, shape or size
- Moles that bleed and/or itch
- A new spot that is dark, may bleed or itch
Early detection is key in treating malignant melanoma. It is the leading form of cancer in women 25 to 29 years and is the second most common form of cancer in women and young women 15-29 years of age.
We encourage our Little River residents to come in for a mole check and skin cancer screening.
Treatment of Precancerous Skin Lesions
Photodynamic Therapy, the newest advancement in treating precancerous skin lesions and Actinic Keratosis, is an in-office procedure offered to our patients.
It includes a topical medication called levulinic acid, which is applied to precancerous skin for a determined amount of time. Then, a blue light, aimed at destroying precancerous skin cells, is directed to the affected area.
Most of our patients tolerate this procedure very well. Application of the medication is painless. Exposure to the BLU-U Light can have a slight stinging sensation. Skin may appear “sunburned” for 4-7 days after treatment.
Skin Cancer Prevention
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to be sun smart. Wear sunscreen, apply every two hours cover sensitive areas and avoid direct, long-term exposure between 10 AM and 3 PM. While these are great tips, just one bad, blistering sunburn can put you at an increased risk for skin cancer.
If you are concerned about any abnormalities to your skin, have any new or changes in moles or warts, contact us today to discuss your concern and schedule an appointment.