If you’ve ever found yourself in the middle of summer in the Finger Lakes during a hot, sunny day, chances are a family member or friend reminded you to use sunscreen—and for good reason. While it may seem like a frivolous break from your summertime activities, taking a moment to apply the sun protective lotion could save you from unwanted health complications.
“Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States; one-in-five people are diagnosed,” says Dr. Kimberly Silvers, Director of Dermatology at Arnot Health, a Member of Centralus Health.
Cell carcinomas are the three most common types of skin cancer. Melanoma suddenly appears as a mole or a new dark spot on the skin. Basal cell carcinoma is a flesh-colored, pearl-like bump or a pinkish patch of skin. Squamous cell carcinoma appears as a red firm bump, scaly patch, or a sore that heals and then re-opens. These can usually be cured if detected early, but treatment often leads to small scars.
“Melanoma is the least common form of skin cancer. It has been increasing steadily for the last 30 years.”
Of all types of skin cancer, melanoma causes the most deaths because of its ability to easily spread to other parts of the body.
“It affects all age groups. Melanoma is rare in young people, but we do see teenagers, young women, and young men.”
Dermatologists say it’s important to know the A-B-C-D-E’s of skin cancer. Asymmetrical: moles or spots with irregular shapes in two parts that look very different. Border: moles or spots with outlines that are irregular or jagged. Color: uneven distribution of pigmentation. Diameter: blemishes that are larger than the size of a pea. Evolving: noticeable changes in the skin over weeks or months. Early detection is key in treating any cancer. Dr. Silvers says any person who is not currently under the care of a dermatologist should be seen.
“We can tell pretty quickly, if we see something that’s concerning, whether or not it will need a biopsy. We then have them make another appointment if that’s necessary. It never hurts to have a baseline exam.”
When microscopic examination is required to diagnose skin diseases, a small sample is sent to the medical laboratory for microscopic examination.
“We see thousands of pigmented skin lesions every year,” says Dr. Elizabeth Plocharczyk, Associate Director of Laboratories at Cayuga Health, a Member of Centralus Health.
Through skin biopsies, samples are examined by a medical lab professional to check for a variety of conditions.
“We do a process called Slow Mohs. Dermatologists remove the visible portion of the lesion and a small amount of surrounding tissue to be processed in a very particular orientation overnight, to ensure there aren’t any cancerous cells in the specimen. This is kind of unique in the region as it requires coordination in all steps to yield successful results.”
Those sections are examined the next day by a dermatopathologist to determine if the lesion extended beyond the removed margin. If so, the Mohs surgeon takes another section of tissue from that area and sends another sample for overnight processing.
“We have all the studies in-house to diagnose melanoma and make diagnosis timely. Being local, we coordinate with providers in a way that benefits patients because we are able to put all the pieces together with them.”
People can view their lab results, imaging, and test results immediately on MyChart as soon as they are finalized. Lab results are often available as soon as the specimen is processed. To avoid the worry of waiting for a lab result, Dr. Silvers says there are simple steps you can take to lower your risk of developing skin cancer.
“The highest risk for melanoma is sun exposure. That’s the most modifiable risk. Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 sunscreen or above. You apply 30 minutes before you go outside and should reapply every 2 hours.”
Most skin cancer is caused by overexposure to UV rays from the sun, tanning beds, or sunlamps, causing sunburn. Over time skin damage adds up, sometimes leading to cancer. It’s recommended to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. or whenever the UV Index is above 3.
The Centralus Health dermatology team is trained to treat multiple conditions ranging from various forms of skin cancer to acne, rashes, rosacea, and warts. Arnot Health’s Dermatology office is located at 200 Madison Avenue in Elmira.
