Advanced Laser Skin Center

Most Common Type Of All Cancers

EXPERIENCE COUNTS!

Dr. Michael J. Tomcik,M.D., is a highly skilled, board certified dermatologist with over 35 years of experience.

Skin Cancer is the most common type of all cancers reported each year. Inspect your skin regularly and see your dermatologist if your moles change in size or color and if they suddenly become sore. Plan to schedule an annual full body skin exam with a dermatologist, especially if there is a personal or a family history of skin cancer. Dr. Tomcik recommends using sunscreen, avoid tanning beds, seek shade and wear protective clothing for your skin safety.

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and is typically slow growing. They are usually found on fair skinned people in sun exposed areas such as the face, scalp, neck, shoulders, backs, or hands and can appear as a small red patch or nodule. If you have a growth that doesn’t seem to heal or bleeds, you should see a dermatologist right away. Dr. Tomcik has treated over 35,000 patients in his career performing a minor, in-office surgery.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer and is also usually found in fair skinned people. A Squamous Cell can look like a bump or a red, scaly patch and can develop and grow into larger masses which can become invasive. This type of cancer can spread to other parts of the body so early treatment is very important.
• Malignant Melanoma is the least common but most deadly type of skin cancer. Early diagnosis is the most important factor in survival. Melanoma can suddenly appear as an existing mole or dark spot can change. All skin types can develop Melanoma and it can appear anywhere on your body, even under your nails. Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color, and Diameter are the ABCDs of Melanoma and a guide for what to watch. A yearly total skin exam after the age of 21 by a board certified dermatologist is the best preventative measure, earlier and more often if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer. Dr. Tomcik recommends the use of SPF 40 or higher sunscreen on a daily basis to sun exposed areas for all skin types.