Skin Cancer Specialist
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Sanctuary Dermatology
Dermatologists located in Metairie, LA
Concerned about the changing appearance of moles or have a family history of skin cancer? Dr. Rachael Delahoussaye-Shields and Dr. Elizabeth Grieshaber offer early screenings and diagnosis. At Sanctuary Dermatology in Metairie, Louisiana, the experienced doctors evaluate your moles and other concerns to put your mind at ease. These experts also offer guidance to prevent skin cancers by using high-quality sunscreens and other skin care products. Schedule a consultation by phone or use the online booking feature.
Skin Cancer Q & A
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Skin cancer cells often develop on the face, neck, had, arms, or hands.
There are two primary forms of skin cancer:
Nonmelanoma
Nonmelanoma skin cancers have two classifications: basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. These types of skin cancer develop in the top layer of your skin and are slow-growing and treatable. With early detection, nonmelanoma skin cancers don’t spread to other areas.
Melanoma
Melanoma skin cancer is a less common condition and affects 2% of those with skin cancer. This type occurs in the melanin of your skin, which is responsible for your skin color.
Melanomas are aggressive and can spread to other tissues if you don’t receive an early diagnosis. This type of cancer can travel through your entire body and result in death.
What are the symptoms of skin cancer?
The primary indication of skin cancer is a change in the moles on your skin. You may also experience a new bump, lesion, or skin growth.
Normal moles are a solid color, usually brown, tan, or the same color as your skin. They have well-defined edges and appear round, oval-shaped, and have a flat or dome-shaped appearance.
Any changes to a mole’s appearance can indicate skin cancer. These changes may include:
- Color
- Jagged edges
- An asymmetrical shape
- An increase in size
- Itching or bleeding
What causes skin cancer?
Excessive exposure to the ultraviolet radiation found in sunlight, sunlamps, and tanning beds is the cause of most skin cancers.
There are two types of UV radiation that influence the development of skin cancer. UVA rays affect the deep basal layers of the skin and can penetrate unprotected glass and clouds. UVB rays damage the upper layers of the skin and cause suntans and sunburns.
You may be at increased risk of developing skin cancer if you spend a lot of time outdoors without proper sunscreen protection. If you have a history of bad sunburns in your childhood, you may have an increased risk.
Other skin cancer risk factors include:
- Using tanning beds
- Fair skin and light-colored eyes
- A weakened immune system
If you notice any changes to your skin, it is critical to schedule a consultation with Dr. Delahoussaye-Shields and Dr. Grieshaber immediately. They offer in-depth screenings and diagnoses to ensure you receive early treatment with a cancer specialist.
Schedule a consultation online or by calling the office to learn more about skin cancer.
