How a Dermatologist in Zip Code 76224 Can Save Your Life

A dermatologist is a medical doctor specializing in disorders of the skin. They prescribe medication for severe acne, perform cosmetic surgeries and deal with skin pathologies such as cancer. If you notice any abnormal mole or spot on your skin, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist right away.

How to Determine if You Need to See a Dermatologist

Most people have moles and the vast majority of them are not dangerous. Unfortunately, moles can change over time and eventually cause you to develop melanoma. This is the most serious form of skin cancer. An unusual mole may also indicate basal or squamous cell carcinoma, which are less serious forms of skin cancer but still require removal. It is also important to keep in mind that skin cancer doesn't always present in the form of a mole. It could be a rash, a lesion or a scaly area that appears on your skin and crusts over multiple times.

Dermatologists encourage people to do regular skin examinations because skin cancer caught early is usually curable. Once it has progressed past the top layer of skin, it is much more difficult to treat. If you are concerned about an unusual spot on your skin, first look at its asymmetry. It should look the same on both sides. Skin cancer may have started if one side is misshapen and does not match the other side. You should also look at the border of the spot or mole to check for jagged edges.

Moles that have turned into skin cancer often change colors. You should be concerned if it is multicolored, black, red or any color other than what it was originally. Next, determine how large the spot is. It should not be larger than the eraser on a pencil, which is approximately one-quarter of an inch. Lastly, check to see if the mole or lesion is elevated on your skin. You can do this by comparing it to other spots that are near to it.

What to Expect at Your Dermatology Appointment

If you suspect possible skin cancer, your dermatologist will do a biopsy when you come in for an appointment. It normally takes at least one week for results. If the spot shows cancer, your dermatologist will discuss treatment options with you. This is usually involves outpatient surgery to remove the cancer in cases of early melanoma and the carcinoma type of skin cancer.

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