A main area of focus for Laura McKinzie, FNP, is treating skin cancers. This typically starts with an annual skin check and subsequent biopsies, if needed. She is able to treat certain skin cancers in the office through the skin cancer excision with real time margin evaluation. Learn more about the different types of skin cancer below.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
This is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops over years of sun exposure or tanning bed usage. This is the slowest growing form of skin cancer so though it is still important to get it taken care of in a timely manner, it is not as urgent as some of the others.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
This is the second most common type of skin cancer. Squamous Cell Carcinoma develops from frequent sun exposure; however, it can also develop from a precancerous growth such as Actinic Keratosis.
Melanoma
Melanoma is often considered the most serious type of skin cancer. This can develop from a mole that is already present or a dark spot that suddenly appeared where there was none before. Treatment for Melanoma is often considered more urgent than BCC or SCC because it can grow quickly. Here are some warning signs:
A – Asymmetry. Moles that are different on one side than the other.
B – Boarder. Irregular, scalloped, or faded border.
C – Color. Color that is inconsistent throughout the mole.
D – Diameter. Typically larger than the end of a pencil but can also be smaller. Don’t wait if there is concern.
E – Evolving. If there is a change in a mole or a new dark spot, call to schedule a skin check.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Merkel Cell Carcinoma is the most rare form of skin cancer but diagnoses have been on the rise over the last several years.
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