08/25/2006

THE MOST COMMON SKIN CANCER

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, with nearly one million new cases occurring annually. This type of cancer rarely metastasizes and can be easily treated and cured when discovered early. Even so, removing it can be potentially disfiguring, especially if the cancer has been growing for a while or appears on prominent areas. Basal cell cancers develop from cells that line the bottom of the skin’s top layer (epidermis) and nearly always occur on areas exposed to the sun. The most common form, nodular, usually appears as a shiny bump and may bleed easily. While it often ulcerates and looks like it is healing, it should be shown to a dermatologist and treated. Exposure to harmful UV rays can cause skin cancer. Whether you play outdoor sports or walk around town doing errands, you need to wear sunscreen.

If you notice any moles that have changed appearance, please call ELMHURST DERMATOLOGY at 630-832-2111 to schedule an evaluation of your skin. We diagnose and treat skin cancer, check and remove moles, and prescribe pharmaceuticals for treatment of rashes and other skin conditions. We take care of or patients like they were members of our own family. The practice is located at 242 N. York Road, Suite 101, Elmhurst.P.S. Eighty percent of basal cell carcinomas are found on the head and neck while the remaining percentage shows up on the trunk, arms, and legs.