Skin Cancer

Skin cancer remains the most common type of cancer in the U.S. At Ross Dermatology, medical dermatologists Kim Ross, MD, Ronald Davis, MD, and the team perform thorough skin cancer screenings and use the most advanced treatments on the market to remove lesions before they have a chance to spread. The team also offers superficial radiation therapy (SRT) to treat skin cancer lesions without cutting or incisions. Call the nearest office in San Antonio, Seguin, or La Vernia, Texas, to make an appointment or book online today.

What is skin cancer?

Skin cancer is an overgrowth of abnormal skin cancer cells. As these cells grow and multiply quickly, they can create a tumor in the skin, which can continue to grow and damage your surrounding tissues. Skin cancer cells can even travel to other areas of the body. The earlier you seek treatment for skin cancer, the more likely you are to make a full recovery.

What are the different types of skin cancer?

There are multiple types of skin cancer, including:

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

The most common type of skin cancer, BCCs look like small, shiny bumps, open sores, or flat, scaly lesions. They typically form in areas of the skin that receive the most sun exposure, like the face, chest, or neck. While they rarely spread beyond their original site, BCCs can disfigure the skin and its surrounding tissue.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)

SCCs are almost as common as BCCs. They often appear as flat, waxy bumps or flat, crusty patches of skin that may bleed or ooze. SCCs are more aggressive than BCCs. They can spread and damage tissue throughout your body. Like BCCs, these tumors typically appear in areas that receive sun exposure.

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. It usually stems from an abnormal mole. The affected mole may change colors, develop rough borders, or grow in size. Melanoma stems from melanocytes and can travel to your organs quickly. Without early intervention, melanoma can be life-threatening.

Actinic keratosis

Actinic keratosis is a precancerous lesion that forms in areas exposed to the sun. These rough, dry patches of skin can evolve into squamous cell carcinomas without proper treatment.

What causes skin cancer?

The primary cause of skin cancer is ultraviolet (UV) light exposure from the sun or tanning beds. Frequent sunburns significantly raise your risk of developing skin cancer. You’re also at a higher risk of skin cancer if you:

• Have fair skin
• Have a family history of skin cancer
• Are older
• Have blonde hair and blue eyes
• Have many moles

If you’ve sought treatment for skin cancer in the past, you’re more likely to develop new lesions.

What are the treatments for skin cancer?

The team at Ross Dermatology performs all types of skin cancer treatments, including:

• Surgical excision
• Laser therapy
• Mohs surgery
• Cryotherapy

Superficial radiation therapy (SRT) is another popular skin cancer treatment at Ross Dermatology. The procedure involves destroying cancerous cells with radiation.

To learn more about treatments for skin cancer, make an appointment at Ross Dermatology by calling the nearest office or booking online today.