Skin Cancer - Early Detection
Skin cancer is the most prevalent of all cancers. Estimates vary on its occurrence but it is estimated that approximately 700,000 Americans develop skin cancer every year.
It is a simple routine to inspect your body for any skin changes. Actinic keratosis and each of the skin cancers depicted in the following pages can be readily detected. If any growth, moles, or discoloration, appears suddenly or begins to change, see Dr. Hollabaugh immediately.
Precancerous Skin Conditions
As part of being aware of your skin condition always be alert for a precancerous lesion called actinic keratosis. These small scaly spots are most commonly found on the face and back of the hands in fair skinned individuals who have had significant sun exposure. If they are not treated, some of them may become skin cancer, requiring more extensive treatment. If they are diagnosed in the early stages, actinic keratosis can be removed by cryotherapy (freezing), by applying a topical form of chemotherapy or by other outpatient procedures.