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Prevention is Key

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells begin to grow uncontrollably. It starts when skin cells are damaged, often by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or tanning beds. This damage can cause mutations or DNA defects. This can lead to mutated skin cells which form malignant tumors. For skin cancer caused by spending too much time in the sun, sunscreen is the best way to take preventive measures.


Tom's Story: Beebe Dermatology Got Me Back to Golfing

Tom Pierce of Selbyville had enjoyed the outdoors since he was young. As he entered retirement, he started to notice some odd spots on his skin. His dermatologist was able to work with him to have the pre-cancerous and then cancerous spots removed.


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Skin Damage and Moles

According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, when your skin tans or burns, it is a sign that your skin is being damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. For those who like a good “base tan” unfortunately there is no safe way to tan with the sun. Your skin becomes red or dark from sunburn because the skin is increasing its production of melanin in an effort to protect the deeper layers of skin from the UV rays. This happens whether a person has light or dark skin.

Dermatologists have known for years that nevi are an indicator of a higher risk for melanoma or skin cancer. Having many nevi or some with atypical features, could signal a higher risk for melanoma skin cancer. One way that Dermatologists evaluate nevi is using the ABCDE’s of Melanoma.

The ABCDEs of Melanoma:

  • Asymmetry. Nevi that are not symmetrical or that are uneven could signal melanoma.
  • Border. An irregular or poorly defined border could be a risk factor.
  • Color. Varied colors in nevi could include white, black, red or blue, this also includes loss of pigment
  • Diameter. Melanomas are usually larger than a pencil eraser- approximately 6mm
  • Evolving. Some nevi can change over time such as itching, bleeding or acute change from other nevi

Are you at risk for melanoma cancer?

  • Those with 50 or more moles, large, or unusual moles have a higher risk.
  • Moles that have more than one color, have changed, or quickly develop could signal melanoma.
  • Talk to your family. Do you have a first degree relative (immediate family) with melanoma? Those with red or blonde hair, or blue or green eyes could have a higher risk.
  • Have you been diagnosed with melanoma or non-melanoma skin, or previous other type of cancer? Having other types of skin issues could mean a higher risk.
  • Have you had exposure to sun or artificial tanning devices?

Treatment of Skin Cancer

Beebe Healthcare practices and providers work together to create a personalized treatment plan for your skin cancer.

Treatments include:

  • Simple excision
  • Mohs micrographic surgery
  • curettage and electrodesiccation
  • cryosurgery