How Is Skin Cancer Detected?
Each of our seven Apex Skin locations is staffed with board-certified dermatologists. These doctors treat all general dermatology and cosmetic dermatology needs, including skin cancer screenings. Dr. Lauren Karpinski of Apex Skin Medina says, “Skin cancer screenings are important for everyone. There are many areas of the body that we just can’t easily examine ourselves. Even if you have someone to help you keep an eye on those areas, it is important to have a dermatologist look closely at your skin at least once a year. Suspicious spots can be removed the same day and checked for cancerous changes.” She elaborates on the process, “If skin cancer is found, I can treat it with a simple excision procedure, or if it’s on the face or neck we’ll have you come back to see Dr. Garcia who will perform Mohs surgery to remove it.”
How Does Mohs Surgery Work?
It’s performed on an outpatient basis. First, local anesthesia is used to numb the site. Then, the visible tumor is taken off by scraping with a special instrument. Next, a thin layer of skin at the tumor site is then removed and examined under a microscope. If evidence of tumor cells is found, the surgeon will remove and examine another skin sample. These steps will be repeated until no tumor can be detected under the microscope. When performed by a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon like Dr. Garcia, the cure rates are 98% for most common skin cancers.
At Apex, we are skin cancer experts. If you notice a skin lesion that is new or changing, or if it’s been over a year since your last skin cancer screening, give us a call and we’ll get you a same-day appointment.
