Diagnosing & Treating Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells. This type of cancer is often attributed to UV ray exposure from the sun, therefore, it is the most common type of cancer. Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body, so it is important to examine all areas of your body, not just the areas often exposed to the sun.
Skin cancer treatments include:
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is home to board-certified cancer specialists who have the skills necessary to diagnose and treat all types of skin cancer in Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA. If you have recently been diagnosed with skin cancer, rely on our oncology team to support you through treatment.
Types of Skin Cancer
There are three major types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (the most common, occurring at the base of the outermost layer of your skin), squamous cell carcinoma (lying just below the surface of your skin), and melanoma (occurring in the cells that produce pigment).
Skin Cancer Symptoms
The symptoms that you experience will depend on the type of skin cancer you are suffering from, but may include:
- New, unusual skin growth, sore or bump that doesn’t disappear
- Lump on the skin that is rough on the surface
- Change in an existing mole
- Brown, scaly patch on the skin
If you notice any of the above symptoms, visit a dermatologist immediately. In order to protect yourself from skin cancer, remember to wear sunglasses and sunscreen every time your skin is exposed to UV rays.
Supporting You in Your Fight Against Skin Cancer in Williamsport & Wellsboro, PA
Our oncologists are here to be your support system while you are fighting skin cancer. If your skin cancer is diagnosed at an early stage and removed immediately, it is almost always curable. Diagnosing skin cancer at a later stage may require a more severe form of treatment, including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Support & Resources
From our two cancer centers in Williamsport and Wellsboro, PA, UPMC can provide exceptional management and treatment to individuals who have been diagnosed with skin cancer.