Skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer in the United States. There are several different types of skin cancer and most are highly treatable when caught during the early stages. Dr. Clifford Lober, the board-certified dermatologist at our office in Kissimmee & Ocoee, FL, treats skin cancer using a variety of methods, such as electrodesiccation and curettage. 

Types of Skin Cancer

There are several types of skin cancer. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer because it is the most likely to spread and can be deadly if not caught early. However, it is highly treatable when detected during the early stages and, fortunately, is also the least common type. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common forms of skin cancer. 

Many skin cancers develop as a result of excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. The risk of developing skin cancer can be dramatically reduced by limiting UV exposure, applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to the skin, and wearing protective gear outdoors, such as long sleeves or a wide-brimmed hat.

Early Warning Signs of Skin Cancer

Being able to recognize the early warning signs of skin cancer can lead to early diagnosis when the cancer is easier to treat. Some early warning signs include:

• Development of bumps or sores that will not heal or go away 
• Unusual new growths on the skin that are painful, bleed or change in size
• Waxy or pale patches on the skin that ooze or become scaly or crusty
• Changes in the size, color, shape, texture, or border of existing moles 

Electrodesiccation and Curettage Treatment  

Several effective methods exist for treating the various types of skin cancer. The best method depends on multiple factors, such as the type of skin cancer, what stage it is in, and the needs of the patient. One technique utilized in the treatment of skin cancer at our office in Kissimmee & Ocoee, FL, is electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C). This method is often used in the treatment of superficial skin cancers confined to the top layer of skin, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. 

ED&C is performed as an outpatient procedure so patients can return home the same day. To begin, the area being treated is numbed. Once the numbing medication has taken effect, the tumor is then carefully removed using an instrument called a curette. Next, an electric current is applied to the area to destroy any cancer cells that might remain to prevent the cancer from returning. Finally, the treated area will be covered with a protective dressing that should be left in place for 24 hours. 

Skin cancer that is caught early is readily curable and can be easily treated with a method like electrodesiccation and curettage. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Lober to have suspicious changes in your skin evaluated for skin cancer by calling our office in Kissimmee, FL, by calling (407) 846-7166, or in the Ocoee office by calling (407) 656-9700, so call today.