A skin cancer diagnosis can bring a lot of questions. AHN’s highly trained and experienced physicians are here to see you through tailored treatment options so you get the care you need.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer is one the most common types of cancers. It affects more than 3 million Americans each year. Knowing the most common types — basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma — can help you feel knowledgeable about your treatment options and ensures an early diagnosis that can help in survival.
We work closely with Carnegie Mellon University to develop novel imaging technologies to catch skin cancer at its earliest stages. We use a pioneering process called sentinel lymph node mapping to help diagnose advanced cases of melanoma and certain high-risk squamous cell cancers.
At AHN Cancer Institute, we specialize in early detection and use targeted, minimally invasive treatments that protect the healthy skin tissue surrounding a tumor. Your whole health is taken into consideration when planning treatment. This means you are not only receiving care that is tailored to your specific diagnosis, but that care extends to your emotional health through comprehensive support resources.
Skin Cancer Center of Excellence
The AHN Skin Cancer Center of Excellence is at the forefront of delivering state-of-the art treatment for skin cancer and melanoma. No other skin cancer center in the area has the technology, care, and compassion that AHN provides to its patients.
Why choose AHN for skin cancer treatment
Although skin cancer is common, a diagnosis can be frightening. Remember, at the Cancer Institute, you’re never alone. We see you as a person and a patient who requires specific care that’s designed for your unique needs. You will find treatment that is:
- Personalized: Our skilled team of dermatologists, oncologists, dermatopathologists, and surgeons offer the latest targeted, minimally invasive surgeries or therapies tailored to the type of skin cancer you have.
- Patient-centric: Our Navigation Team helps coordinate appointments, answers questions about symptoms and treatment options, and provides logistical support if you need to travel. We help lift the burden of care planning so you can focus on getting better.
- Compassionate: Cancer treatment is a stressful time. Our compassionate team of caregivers is devoted to improving your quality of life, helping you understand treatment options, and keeping you comfortable every step of the way. Our robust support services help you live the best quality of life during treatment.
- Collaborative: Your treatment team works together to identify the right treatment for you, whether it’s surgery, medical oncology, or radiation therapy.
Skin cancer symptoms and signs
It’s easy to assume a skin lesion or a mole is harmless. However, it’s important to take note of skin changes or new spots that look suspicious or different. Skin cancer signs and symptoms vary for each person, but there are some key things to look out for. While basal and squamous cell cancer tend to grow slowly, melanoma can be more aggressive.
It is critical to receive an early, accurate diagnosis. A precise diagnosis helps to create an effective treatment plan that will give you the best long-term results. Reach out to your dermatologist or primary care provider right away if you suspect a change with your skin.
Skin cancer risk factors
Skin cancer is a serious disease, but understanding the risks can help you take steps to protect yourself.
- Excessive sun exposure: The primary culprit is ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Both UVA and UVB rays can damage DNA in skin cells, leading to cancer.
- Sunburns: Frequent sunburns, especially in childhood, significantly increase the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
- Tanning beds and lamps: These devices emit high levels of UV radiation, posing a similar risk to sun exposure.
- Atypical moles: Moles that are unusual in size, shape, or color can be more prone to becoming cancerous.
- Precancerous lesions: Conditions like actinic keratosis can develop into skin cancer if left untreated.
- Fair skin: People with fair skin, freckles, and light hair are more susceptible to skin cancer due to lower melanin levels, which provide natural protection from UV radiation.
- Age: The risk of skin cancer increases with age, as cumulative sun exposure takes its toll.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation can suppress the immune system, making it harder to fight off skin cancer cells.
- Medications: Certain medications, like immunosuppressants, can also weaken the immune system.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
- Outdoor workers: People who work outdoors for extended periods are at higher risk due to prolonged sun exposure.
- Certain industries: Workers in industries like construction, agriculture, fishing, aircrews, and firefighters are exposed to higher levels of UV radiation.
Skin cancer screening and diagnosis
Early cancer detection saves lives. We offer monthly cancer screenings across Pennsylvania so you can find resources and access where and when you need.
Basal and squamous cell cancers are almost always curable when we detect them early. Melanoma is more aggressive and can be life-threatening, so early detection is essential.
A physical exam
A physician, often a dermatologist, examines your skin to look for suspicious growths. Basal cell carcinomas often look pink, pearly, or pimple-like and squamous cell carcinomas tend to be ten