What Is Cutaneous Oncology?

Cutaneous Oncology is the study and treatment of skin cancer. Skin cancer is abnormal skin cell growth, often caused by to exposure to the sun. This form of cancer is extremely common, but can also form in spots not directly exposed to the sun. Major types of skin cancer include:

Basal Cell Carcinoma

“BCC” is short for Basal Cell Carcinoma and is a type of skin cancer beginning in the basal cells. Basal cells are responsible for producing new skin cells when old ones die. This type of cancer usually appears on the neck and face as white, wax-like bumps or darker, scale-like patches. With nearly 3 million cases a year, it’s important to have one of our service providers check out any sign or symptom that looks abnormal.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This kind of skin cancer is caused by the growth of abnormal squamous cells. This develops in the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. Also known as SCC, this cancer can appear as red, scale-like spots, sores, or even growths. Over 1 million cases are diagnosed a year, and it is extremely common for people who have had a lot of UV exposure over a long period of time.

Melanoma

This is one of the most serious types of skin cancer. Melanoma occurs when the pigment-producing cells become cancerous. These cells give color to our skin. Symptoms can include new growths, changes in the look of moles, and various forms of unusual skin conditions. More than 200,000 cases occur each year, and this is nothing to mess with. Visit us immediately if you have any of the signs.

What is Cutaneous Oncology? Ask the Experts at Kessel Dermatology

At Kessel Dermatology, we have the capability to treat the vast majority of skin cancers with in-office procedures that do not require hospitalization or general anesthesia. We utilize a wide array of surgical techniques to maximize outcomes, and we have an on-site dermatopathology lab to rapidly ensure complete removal of skin cancers without delay.

Because early treatment is vital for all types of skin cancer, we highly recommend visiting us for a yearly skin cancer check. During this exam, one of our cutaneous oncology experts will thoroughly scan your body for signs of skin cancer. Should we find anything abnormal, we will use advanced techniques to determine whether the spot is cancerous. In the event that it is, we will then recommend the best therapeutic treatment approach for you, taking your lifestyle and any concerns you may have into consideration.

Why Are We Known As the Premier Skin Cancer Specialist in NJ?

Cutaneous oncology deals with one of the most common types of cancer worldwide. Skin cancer can be very serious. Thus, it is important to find a dermatology practice you can rely on to recognize and expertly treat any type of skin cancer at the first sign.

Patients seeking comprehensive, high-quality skin care in New Jersey depend on Kessel Dermatology. Here are a few testimonials which demonstrate why we’re the preferred provider:

• “Dr. Kessel was very professional. He let us know what he was doing every step of the way. He did a thorough exam and removed anything he deemed questionable. I also enjoyed the fact that he had a sense of humor.” – Fran K.
• “Kessel Dermatology is the only place I will ever go. I have been going to Dr. Kessel for over 30 years. Jennifer, who is a PA at Kessel Dermatology, actually saved my life when she found a mole that was cancerous. Words cannot describe how wonderful everyone at the practice is.” -Sam D.

If you are due for an annual skin cancer screening, call us at 609-890-2600 today to schedule an evaluation.