General Dermatology

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and its health is critical to your well-being. One of its main functions is to help protect us from the environment. Unfortunately, while it is doing this, it frequently accumulates genetic damage that may result in skin cancer. In fact, skin cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States. Some skin cancers can be deadly. Early detection of these cancers can be life-saving. This is why the American Academy of Dermatology recommends that everyone have an annual skin exam by a dermatologist. In addition, patients should be performing monthly self-exams at home. If they notice anything new or changing, they should see a dermatologist immediately.

What dermatologists do:

• Skin exams/skin cancer screenings
• Treat rashes, acne, psoriasis and other conditions of the skin, hair and nails.
• Mole removals
• Skin cancer biopsies and removals

Know the warning signs of Melanoma:

A: Asymmetry—one half is unlike the other half.

B: Borders—irregular, scalloped, or poorly circumscribed border.

C: Color—varied from one area to another; shades of tan and brown, black; sometimes red, white or blue.

D: Diameter—while melanomas are usually greater than 6mm in diameter (the size of a pencil eraser) when diagnosed, they can be smaller.