What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world and anyone is at risk. There are three types of skin cancer:
- basal cell carcinoma (skin-colored lesion that often bleeds);
- squamous cell carcinoma (pink, scaly lesion that may hurt); and
- melanoma (brown or irregularly colored lesion).
Why treat skin cancer?
Melanoma is a particularly severe skin cancer that requires surgical removal to prevent progression and possibly death. Even though many skin cancers are not life-threatening, they can lead to significant disfigurement or pose complications from bleeding or pain. You should seek care by a board-certified dermatologist if a mole changes color or size, hurts, bleeds, or will not heal as expected.
How are skin cancers treated at DTLA Derm?
At DTLA Derm, all treatments are performed by a board-certified dermatologist who has extensive training in the removal, destruction, and management of skin cancer. We offer a variety of treatments based on the subtype, location, size, and functional status of the patient. We follow published guidelines on skin cancer treatment, but understand it is not a one size fits all approach. Treatment options include electrodessication and curettage (ED&C), excision, shave removal with liquid nitrogen, medicated creams, injections, and Mohs surgery. Mohs surgery is performed on Monday. All other treatments are performed Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm.
