Skin Cancer Treatment
Skin Cancer and Possible Treatment Options
Skin cancer or any cancer can be a terrifying diagnosis to hear. However, knowledge can be power and there are many options available. The type of skin cancer and the medical history of the patient can affect the chances of recovery and may provide more options than was previously available.
If you’re looking for skin cancer treatment options, you’re at the right place. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the various skin cancer treatments we offer in Glendale and Encino.
Types of Treatable Skin Cancer
All types of skin cancer start in the epidermis or the outermost layer of the skin. It then clumps different kinds of cells together in the skin itself. One of the most dangerous risks is cancer spreading to other organs before it's under control. Here are 3 types of treatable skin cancers that we specialize in.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma usually occurs on skin that’s been exposed to the sun a lot. This is the most common type of skin cancer. Basal Cell Carcinoma usually presents itself as raised, smooth bumps. However, it can also look like scarring or firm skin that is yellow or white. This type usually doesn’t spread to other parts of the body but can spread to other tissues around the cancer.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma appears on skin that has previously been damaged by the sun like sunburns. However, it also could be a result of chemicals or radiation. This cancer presents itself as a red bump that feels scaly to the touch. The tumor could bleed or form a crust around itself. squamous cell carcinoma is known to spread to lymph nodes close to the cancer. There’s a chance of curing the disease if it is caught before spreading. Learn more about squamous cell carcinoma treatment options.
Melanoma
Melanoma only appears in about 5 percent of all skin cancer tumors but accounts for 75 percent of all skin cancer deaths. People with moles and fair skin are more at risk for developing melanoma since it develops from pigment-containing cells, and the biggest risk factor is UV exposure. Melanoma has a chance of being successfully treated if caught early enough before the lesions have penetrated tissue below the skin.
Treatment Options: What They Are and How Do They Work
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is a common procedure to treat common and aggressive skin tumors. It’s the best method for removing skin cancer with the least amount of tissue removal. This is usually the go-to treatment option when paired with something else. Mohs surgery is performed by removing one layer of the cancer at a time. This effectively leaves most of the healthy tissue behind. We’ll also provide a local anesthetic to numb the area for the procedure.
Electrodesiccation and Curettage or EDC
EDC is the process of “scraping” out the cancer with a curette and burning the infected cells with electrocautery to reduce bleeding. This treatment option is most effective against squamous and basal cell carcinomas. The cure rate with ECD is approximately 83 to 85 percent.
Imiquimod and Fluorouracil Cream
These topical agents used to specifically treat basal cell carcinoma. Imiquimod activates cytotoxic T cells that destroy virus-infected cells and tumors. Fluorouracil inhibits DNA synthesis, slowing or stopping the progression of cancer. This treatment is for small tumors in low-risk locations for patients who can’t or won’t undergo other treatment options.
Locations
1505 Wilson Terrace
Suite 240
Glendale, CA 91206
Don Mehrabi MD in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Encino Tarzana, and Glendale. Same/Next Day / Saturday appt.
16030 Ventura Blvd.
Suite 140
Encino, CA 91436
Don Mehrabi MD in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Encino Tarzana, and Glendale. Same/Next Day / Saturday appt.
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