Skin Cancer

The most common cancer.

Although easily preventable, skin cancer is the most widely developed cancer throughout the world. Sunburns alone can double your risk for melanoma with as few as 5 moderate sunburns throughout your lifetime. Thanks to modern research and insight into ultraviolet radiation (UV), scientists and researchers have shown UV rays as a proven human carcinogen capable of causing cancer.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified UV tanning beds and modalities as a Group 1 hazard alongside plutonium, cigarettes and solar UV radiation. Due to the high risk accompanied by its commonality, dermatologists highly specialize in the treatment of skin cancer and melanoma-based skin conditions. 

Here at Idaho Dermatology, our specialists are highly experienced in diagnosing and treating all forms of nonmelanoma and melanoma-based skin conditions. Schedule an appointment today to detect any signs of potential skin cancer.

Skin Cancer

Signs & Symptoms

  • Contact dermatitis

  • Rosacea 

  • Fifth disease

  • Ringworm

  • Eczema

  • Diaper rash

  • Psoriasis

  • Chickenpox

  • Cellulitis

  • Scabies

  • Scarlet fever

  • Hives

  • Heat rash

  • Lupus

  • Measles

  • Poison Ivy

  • Swimmer's Itch

Forms of skin cancer.

BCC is known as the most common form of skin cancer. Light or fair skinned individuals are the most at-risk for developing tissue-colored growths, lesions, bumps, or pink areas of the skin.

Overexposure to UV rays is the leading catalyst for developing BCC. Ares of the skin most commonly affected include:

  • Head
  • Neck
  • Hands
  • Arms
  • Torso
  • Legs

Second on the list of the most commonly developed skin cancers is SCC—UV accelerated cancer found in both light and dark skinned individuals. Signs are similar to those of BCC, but can appear as lesions or wounds that heal and regrow.

Areas of the skin where SCC is commonly found include:

  • Ears (top/rims)
  • Face
  • Neck
  • Arms/legs
  • Torso
  • Back

Referred to as one of the most serious forms of skin cancer, melanoma can pose deadly consequences if left to spread undetected. Most individuals notice newly developed brown patches of skin, possibly originating from a mole, with asymmetrical spreading or discoloration.

Self-examination recommendations follow the ABCDE method:

  • A) Asymmetry: Affected spotted areas are irregular from other spotting in the same area.
  • B) Border: The outline of the area is scalloped or lacking definition.
  • C) Color: The affected area exhibits varying shades of color (tan, black, brown, red).
  • D) Diameter: The common diameter is typically 6mm for an area of melanoma. The eraser head from a pencil is a generic comparison to detect problem areas, but some can be smaller or larger.
  • E) Evolving: Affected areas will likely grow in their shape, diameter, and color.

Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further spread and risk.

Better skin and better health is our mission.

Schedule your appointment today.

Contact Us 208.656.2160