Top Questions to Ask When You Receive a Skin Cancer Diagnosis
- Posted on: Jul 25 2024
You have skin cancer.
Hearing these words can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. The skin care experts at Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology are here to guide you through the process and provide you with the quality care and compassion you deserve.
First, know that you are not alone. The American Association of Dermatology reports that one of every five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer every single day. When it comes to skin cancer and potentially saving your life, every question matters. At Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology, we’ll do everything we can to help you feel comfortable and well-informed after a skin cancer diagnosis.
Some skin cancer facts
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the nation and anyone can get it, regardless of their skin color. Sun exposure and indoor tanning are the leading causes of skin cancer.
The key to surviving skin cancer is early detection. Annual skin exams are the most effective tool we have for detecting abnormal growths on your skin as early as possible.
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common forms of skin cancer, are highly treatable if detected early and treated properly.
Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a raised pink or red spot that bleeds easily or won’t heal. Squamous cell carcinoma often appears as a raised lesion or a fast-growing open sore that won’t heal. Left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other parts of your body.
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. However, in its early stages, melanoma can also be successfully removed and monitored by regular skin cancer screenings. The early signs of melanoma include:
• An unusual-looking mole
• A mole that is growing
• A mole with an uneven border, odd shape, and/or different colors
Melanoma often does not cause symptoms early on, although you may experience bleeding, or pain. Any mole that changes its size, border, shape, or color should be checked immediately, even if you don’t have other symptoms.
How is skin cancer diagnosed?
A skin cancer diagnosis begins with an in-person exam. Annual skin exams are recommended for most people, although we may suggest more frequent exams if you are at high risk for skin cancer.
During the exam, your dermatologist will carefully check your skin for abnormal moles, lesions, and other growths from the top of your head to the soles of your feet. This thorough exam includes your scalp, face, ears, neck, chest, arms, legs, and even the skin between your fingers and toes. Any visible spots are closely checked for texture, color, border, and size.
If we see anything concerning, the immediate next step is to have the growth in question biopsied. Your dermatologist will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area and then remove a small amount of tissue from the growth for closer examination by a laboratory. Biopsy results are typically ready within 7-10 days.
Questions to ask your dermatologist after diagnosis
It’s important to have open and honest communication with your dermatologist through every step of your skin cancer journey. Consider bringing a list of questions with you, so you don’t forget anything you want to ask.
Here are some of the top questions to include:
What type of skin cancer do I have?
Whether you have basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, or some other type of skin cancer, your dermatologist can explain what your diagnosis means and come up with a personalized treatment plan for you.
What stage is my skin cancer?
Skin cancer is classified by stages (I, II, III, and IV) that indicate its size and how much it has spread. The higher the number, the more your skin cancer has spread.
How will we treat my skin cancer?
Your treatment plan will depend on what type of skin cancer you have and how much it has spread. For instance, medicated creams can often treat early basal cell carcinoma. A minor surgical procedure to remove the cancer or Mohs surgery may be required for more aggressive lesions. Your treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma include excision, Mohs surgery, and radiation.
Treatment for melanoma is more advanced and may involve excision, surgery (including Mohs surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and other options), immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and more.
Can blood tests show if my cancer has spread?
We may test your blood for a substance called lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) before or during skin cancer treatment, especially if you have advanced melanoma. A high LDH level is often a sign that your cancer may be harder to treat and can affect its stage.
Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology has the answers you need
No one wants to receive a skin cancer diagnosis – but if it happens, you can count on Forefront Dermatology, formerly Asarch Dermatology to provide you with top-of-the-line treatments and the highest standard of care.
Got questions? Our skin care experts are here for you. Schedule an appointment today.
Posted in: Skin Care
