Skin Cancer (cont.)
Medical Author:
Michael S Lehrer, MD
Medical Editor:
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical EditorMelissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. IN THIS ARTICLE
SurgerySmall lesions may be removed through a variety of techniques, including simple excision (cutting it away), electrodesiccation and curettage (burning the tissue with an electric needle), and cryosurgery (freezing the area with liquid nitrogen). Larger tumors, lesions in high-risk locations, recurrent tumors, and lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas are removed by Mohs micrographic surgery. The surgeon carefully removes tissue, layer by layer, until cancer-free tissue is reached. Malignant melanoma is treated more aggressively than just surgical removal. To ensure the complete removal of this dangerous malignancy, 1-2 cm of normal-appearing skin surrounding the tumor is also removed. In some cases, when available, the removal is accomplished using Mohs micrographic surgery. Depending on the thickness of the melanoma, neighboring lymph nodes may also be removed and tested for cancer. The sentinel node method uses a mildly radioactive substance to identify which lymph nodes are most likely to be affected. Must Read Articles Related to Skin Cancer
Common Health Tests
Common health tests may be performed in your doctor's office or even in the pharmacy. Regular health checks and screening for certain diseases and conditions ha...learn more >>
Mole Removal
Moles may be removed using excision and stitches or excision and cauterization. Risks of mole removal include infection, nerve damage, and anesthetic allergy. L...learn more >>
Skin Biopsy
Your doctor may want to obtain a sample of skin in order to diagnose diseases of the skin, such as those caused by bacteria, fungi, or other chronic skin condit...learn more >>
Viewer Comments & ReviewsSkin Cancer - Describe Your ExperienceThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:Please describe your experience with skin cancer. Skin cancer - Signs and SymptomsThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What signs and symptoms did you experience with your skin cancer? |
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Skin Cancer: Melanoma »
Despite recent declines in the incidence and mortality of cancer overall, the incidence of cutaneous melanoma continues to escalate.
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