Skin Cancer Specialists San Ramon CA

Find Skin Cancer Specialists in San Ramon, CA. Whether you’re seeking treatment or looking to schedule a preventative screening, we can connect you with the best dermatologists near you in San Ramon, CA.

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Skin Cancer Specialists FAQ in San Ramon, CA

Is skin cancer always terminal?

Most skin cancers can be cured if they’re treated before they have a chance to spread. However, more advanced cases of melanoma can be fatal. The earlier skin cancer is found and removed, the better your chances for a full recovery.

Is skin cancer treated by a dermatologist or an oncologist?

Most basal and squamous cell cancers (as well as pre-cancers) are treated by dermatologists – doctors who specialize in treating skin diseases. If the cancer is more advanced, you may be treated by another type of doctor, such as: A surgical oncologist: a doctor who treats cancer with surgery.

Can you have melanoma for years and not know?

“You could have melanoma for a long time before you realize it, because some types are not so obvious. Some aggressive forms, like nodular melanoma, grow fast, are visible and can hurt or bleed.” While certain groups may be at a higher risk for melanoma, anyone can get the disease.

Can you tell the stage of melanoma from a biopsy?

These test results along with the results from your skin biopsy, complete skin exam, and physical are used to determine the stage of the melanoma. When everything that your doctor sees suggests that the cancer may have spread to a lymph node, your doctor may recommend a procedure called a sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Who is the best doctor for skin cancer?

Dermatologist. A dermatologist is a doctor who’s trained to diagnose and treat conditions that involve the skin, hair, and nails. This type of physician plays an important role in diagnosing skin cancer.

How quickly does skin cancer spread?

Melanoma can grow very quickly. It can become life-threatening in as little as 6 weeks and, if untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body.

What does the first stage of melanoma look like?

Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the shape, color, size, or feel of an existing mole. However, melanoma may also appear as a new mole. People should tell their doctor if they notice any changes on the skin. The only way to diagnose melanoma is to remove tissue and check it for cancer cells.

What are the 7 warning signs of skin cancer?

Changes in the appearance of a mole. Skin changes after a mole has been removed. Itchiness & oozing. A sore or spot that won’t go away. Scaly patches. Vision problems. Changes in your fingernails or toenails.

How long can a person live with squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) generally has a high survival rate. The 5-year survival is 99 percent when detected early. Once SCC has spread to the lymph nodes and beyond, the survival rates are lower. Yet this cancer is still treatable with surgery and other therapies, even in its advanced stages.

Does vitamin D help with melanoma?

High circulating vitamin D concentration has been found to be associated with reduced melanoma progression and improved survival. Furthermore, reduced vitamin D serum levels have been reported in patients with stage IV melanoma compared with those with stage I.

What do cancerous age spots look like?

Spots that become asymmetric, have borders that shift, get darker or lighter, or change in diameter should be checked for skin cancer. Speed of changes. Age spots tend to shift from pink to yellow to tan to brown over several years. Spots that are changing more rapidly should be evaluated.