List of Skin Cancer Specialist near me in Shawneetown

A Skin Cancer Specialist is a medical expert dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing skin cancers. This specialist focuses on a range of malignancies that affect the skin, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, as well as rare skin cancers. By employing advanced techniques and personalized treatment plans, a Skin Cancer Specialist provides comprehensive care aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes for patients. Skin Cancer Specialists are adept at handling various types of skin cancers, including: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common form of skin cancer, often resulting from prolonged sun exposure. BCC typically grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Treatment options include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, cryotherapy, and topical therapies. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type of skin cancer usually arises from the outer layers of the skin and is commonly associated with sun exposure. SCC can be aggressive if left untreated, potentially spreading to other areas. Treatment often involves surgical removal, radiation therapy, or topical chemotherapy. Melanoma: A more serious and potentially aggressive form of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. Melanoma can spread rapidly to other parts of the body if not caught early. Management may include surgical excision, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. Rare Skin Cancers: Such as Merkel cell carcinoma and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, which may require specialized treatment approaches and multidisciplinary care. Diagnosis and Evaluation are fundamental to effective skin cancer treatment. Skin Cancer Specialists use various diagnostic tools and techniques, including: Skin Biopsy: Removing a small sample of skin for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Dermatoscopy: Using a specialized instrument to examine skin lesions in detail. Imaging Studies: Utilizing techniques such as CT scans and PET scans to assess the extent of cancer spread. Treatment Planning is personalized based on the type, stage, and location of the skin cancer. Skin Cancer Specialists collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including dermatologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists, to develop an individualized treatment strategy. Treatment options may include: Surgical Excision: Removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin. Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A precise surgical technique that removes cancerous skin layer by layer, examining each layer for cancer cells until clear margins are achieved. Topical Treatments: Applying medications directly to the skin to treat superficial skin cancers. Radiation Therapy: Targeting cancer cells with high-energy rays, often used when surgery is not an option. Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy: Using advanced therapies to stimulate the bodys immune system or target specific cancer cell mechanisms.