Skin Cancer Specialists Torrington CT

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

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Skin Cancer Specialists FAQ in Torrington, CT

Can you pass away from melanoma?

Melanoma is usually curable when detected and treated early. Once it has spread deeper into the skin or other parts of the body, it becomes more difficult to treat and can be deadly. The estimated five-year survival rate for U.S. patients whose melanoma is detected early is about 99 percent.

How long can you have basal cell carcinoma before it spreads?

The cancer is the result of cumulative damage of years spent in the sun, and may take 20 years to manifest. Although it’s often more common in older people, it can occur in younger adults, too. Basal cell carcinoma spreads very slowly and very rarely will metastasize, Dr. Christensen says.

How urgent is skin cancer?

You’ll have an urgent referral (within 2 weeks) if you have squamous cell skin cancer. Basal cell skin cancers usually do not need an urgent referral, but you should still see a specialist within 18 weeks. The specialist will examine your skin and may do a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis of skin cancer.

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 is the life expectancy of someone with basal cell carcinoma?

Survival for most non-melanoma skin cancers is excellent. The 5-year relative survival for BCC is 100%. This means that, on average, all of the people diagnosed with BCC are just as likely to live at least 5 years after their diagnosis as people in the general population.

What can be mistaken for melanoma?

Nevus (mole) Moles, also known as nevi, are one of the most common growths that people find on their skin. Growing mostly in early adulthood these are some of the growths most commonly mistaken for melanomas.

What is the least fatal type of skin cancer?

Basal cell carcinoma Most common form of skin cancer but the least dangerous. Appear as round or flattened lump or scaly spots. Red, pale or pearly in colour. May become ulcerated, bleed and fail to heal.

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 a dermatologist tell if a mole is cancerous just by looking at it?

A visual check of your skin only finds moles that may be cancer. It can’t tell you for sure that you have it. The only way to diagnose the condition is with a test called a biopsy. If your doctor thinks a mole is a problem, they will give you a shot of numbing medicine, then scrape off as much of the mole as possible.

Can a doctor tell if a mole is cancerous just by looking at it?

A visual check of your skin only finds moles that may be cancer. It can’t tell you for sure that you have it. The only way to diagnose the condition is with a test called a biopsy. If your doctor thinks a mole is a problem, they will give you a shot of numbing medicine, then scrape off as much of the mole as possible.

What skin conditions can be mistaken for skin cancer?

Here are 5 skin conditions that often mimic skin cancer, which include psoriasis, sebaceous hyperplasia, seborrheic keratosis, nevus, and cherry angioma.

At what age is skin cancer most common?

[1-4] In contrast to most cancer types, melanoma skin cancer also occurs relatively frequently at younger ages. Age-specific incidence rates increase steadily from around age 20-24 and more steeply in males from around age 55-59. The highest rates are in in the 85 to 89 age group for females and males.