Skin Cancer

Skin cancer occurs when skin cells grow uncontrollably due to DNA damage — most commonly from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Abnormal cell growth can develop into cancerous lesions that may spread if not treated.

Common Types of Skin Cancer

The three major categories of skin cancer include:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common type of skin cancer, often appearing as a pearly bump, flat flesh-colored patch, or sore that does not heal. BCC typically grows slowly and rarely metastasizes but can cause significant local damage if left untreated.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – Often seen as a red, scaly patch or firm bump, SCC can develop from long-term sun exposure. It has a higher risk of spreading than BCC, especially when left untreated.
• Melanoma – The most serious form of skin cancer, melanoma arises from pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) and has a greater tendency to spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is essential for successful treatment.

Minnesota has some of the highest melanoma rates in the U.S., underscoring the importance of professional screening and sun-safe practices for local residents.

Skin cancer can vary in appearance, but some key warning signs include:

• A new skin growth or lesion that looks unusual
• A spot that changes in size, shape, or color
• A sore that won’t heal, bleeds, or itches
• A firm, red bump or a rough, scaly patch of skin
• A mole with irregular borders or uneven color

Dermatologists also use the ABCDE method to evaluate moles and spots for melanoma:

• Asymmetry — one half unlike the other
• Border — irregular or blurred edges
• Color — multiple shades or uneven tones
• Diameter — larger than 6 mm (pencil eraser)
• Evolving — any change over time

If you notice changes like these, it’s important to seek a dermatologic evaluation promptly.

Early detection significantly improves treatment success and survival rates. Our dermatologists perform comprehensive full-body skin exams, checking all areas of the skin — including areas often overlooked — to detect suspicious lesions as early as possible.

When a lesion appears suspicious, we may recommend:

• Dermatoscopic imaging for enhanced visualization
• Skin biopsy to examine tissue under a microscope and confirm a diagnosis

Your personalized skin cancer treatment plan depends on the type, size, location, and aggressiveness of the cancer. Common approaches include:

Surgical Treatments

• Excision: Removal of the cancerous lesion and some surrounding tissue.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A specialized technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer, preserving healthy tissue — especially useful for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas.

Non-Surgical Therapies

• Topical Treatments: Medications applied directly to superficial cancers.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing early cancers or precancerous lesions.
• Radiation Therapy: For tumors that are difficult to operate on.
• Immunotherapy & Targeted Therapy: Advanced systemic treatments for aggressive or advanced melanoma.

Early treatment not only improves outcomes but also often results in less invasive care and better cosmetic results.

While not all skin cancers are preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk by:

• Using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
• Wearing protective clothing and hats outdoors
• Avoiding tanning beds and excessive sun exposure
• Performing regular self-skin exams and reporting changes promptly