Dr. William Pittas does not perform Mohs surgery but he offers reconstruction services after a Mohs surgery procedure.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and the most frequently occurring form of all cancers. It typically occurs on sun-exposed areas such as the scalp, face, nose, ears, neck, chest, shoulders, or back. It can present as a non-healing sore, a shiny or pearly bump, or even a pink, scaly growth. When detected early, most basal cell carcinomas can be easily treated and cured. Treatments are typically surgical and include electrodesiccation and curettage (scraping and applying heat to the skin cancer site), excision, and Mohs surgery. In certain cases, basal cell carcinomas can also be treated with cryotherapy (use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin cancer), topical medications, photodynamic therapy (PDT), radiation, or oral medications.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer originating from the pigment producing cells in the skin called melanocytes. Though not as common as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, it is more deadly because of its ability to spread to other parts of the body. Melanomas can have various appearances. The ABCDEs and Ugly Duckling Sign are two commonly used methods to help identify melanomas. The ABCDEs is a mnemonic used to remember warning signs for melanoma: A for Asymmetry, B for Borders being uneven or irregular, C for Color variation, D for Diameter >6mm, and E for Evolving or changing lesion. The Ugly Duckling Sign is another common method used to identify concerning lesions. It is based on the concept that normal moles on an individual are likely to be similar in appearance. Any lesion or growth that appears different or stands out like an “ugly duckling” warrants further evaluation. As early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival, any new, unusual, changing, or symptomatic growth should prompt a visit to your dermatologist.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most commonly occurring type of skin cancer. It appears most frequently in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight, such as the face, nose, ears, lips, neck, and back of the hands. Squamous cell carcinomas can present as rough, scaly, red patches; wart or horn-like lesions; or tender, crusted growths. They can arise from pre-cancerous growths called actinic keratoses. They can also arise from areas of chronic inflammation or injury. While most squamous cell carcinomas can be cured, these skin cancers can be deadly if left untreated. Treatments are typically surgical and include electrodesiccation and curettage (scraping and applying heat to the skin cancer site), excision, and Mohs surgery. In some instances, squamous cell carcinomas can also be treated with cryotherapy (use of liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin cancer), topical medications, photodynamic therapy (PDT), or radiation.