Early Detection and Treatment for Skin Cancer Jupiter

We’re fortunate to live in the Sunshine State. Plenty of sunshine assists our bodies in making Vitamin D, which boosts immunity, bone health, and our spirits. But the sun’s rays also expose us to ultraviolet radiation. If we don’t protect our skin, UV light penetrates the skin, resulting in the type of damage that may require cosmetic treatment (such as broken capillaries and hyperpigmentation). Medical treatment is required should skin cells begin to grow in an abnormal manner. These cancers take on many forms.

Early detection and treatment for skin cancer in Jupiter, FL at A Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic and Laser Surgery is a must. Advanced science and technologies have contributed to exceptional outcomes, even among patients with particularly aggressive cancers or those cancers that may have had a bleak prognosis a few short decades ago. Many A Center for Dermatology patients have gone on to lead full, active, happy lives post-diagnosis.

Board-certified Dermatologist Dr. Peter Vitulli may detect a suspicious mole or spot during a professional skin exam, recommended at least annually. That way, you’re not visiting us only after you are panicked about a change in your skin; however, if you do notice changes, call 561-427-2000 immediately.

If you know your ABC’s, you know the red flags:

Asymmetrical spots, one side looks different from the other
Borders that are jagged or scalloped
Colors of at least two shades, such as red, blue, and black
Diameters that are generally bigger than a pencil’s eraser
Evolving with time; for instance, spots that are growing, or suddenly itchy

Dr. Vitulli starts with a visual inspection. A dermatoscope., or handheld microscope-like device, allows the doctor to magnify the area for a better look at the skin’s structure. If he sees something suspicious, at least a portion of it is removed and the tissue is sent to a lab for analysis. Biopsies are overall quick, and patients typically don’t feel much of anything. If the results from your sample indicate cancer, a course of treatment is determined promptly. The following characteristics are considered before identifying the best treatment option for you:

Type of cancer
Where it’s located
Its stage, depth, and if it’s spread to other areas
Your overall health

Squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas are the most prevalent skin cancers. A Center for Dermatology’s Dr. Vitulli is pleased to offer Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS) to patients in and around the Jupiter, FL area. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, this precision treatment is the most effective way to successfully remove and treat SCCs and BCCs. With a reported 98-plus percent cure rate, MMS achieves comparatively favorable outcomes to standard surgical excision and other methods such as freezing, scraping, laser and biological therapy.

MMS is particularly helpful for skin cancers that are:

Recurrent or are at great risk of returning
In hard-to-miss or delicate areas; for instance, on the face and hands
Some melanomas and other rarer cancers

Call Our Office More Information 561-427-2000

or Schedule an Appointment

Mohs Micrographic Surgery can achieve such exceptional outcomes, even among those cases that are particularly challenging or complex, is due to technique’s precise, unique nature. Dr. Vitulli begins the procedure by numbing the area to be treated. He then removes the visible growth, along with a small amount of surrounding skin. This treatment is progressive; success is dependent on the sophisticated training and skill of specialists like Dr. Vitulli. Every time a tiny amount of tissue is removed, the sample is reviewed microscopically. Additional tissue is removed until cancer cells are no longer detected under the microscope.

MMS and other treatments don’t have to be in your future. A Center for Dermatology emphasizes prevention. We encourage you to establish skin cancer-fighting routines, including annual professional checks. During each exam, Dr. Vitulli will also discuss how to effectively perform self-checks year-round, as well as other ways minimize your risk of developing skin cancer.

Using sunscreen formulated to provide broad-spectrum UVA-UVB protection, applying it even on overcast days and reapplying as directed, and avoiding mid-day when the sun’s rays are their strongest, represent just some of the healthy habits A Center for Dermatology urges all patients to get into, regardless of their skin type and perceived predisposition to skin cancer. Call 561-427-2000 to schedule your appointment.