Skin Cancer Specialist
-
- Tweet
Jaggers C. Keene, MD
Primary Care & Family Practice located in Largo, FL
Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer and, if treated early, is readily resolved. Jaggers Keene, MD, provides skin cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care at his practice in Largo, Florida. If you have an abnormal growth or lesion or have a history of skin cancer, make an appointment today for a skin check and a possible biopsy. Call the Jaggers C. Keene, MD, office today for an appointment, or use the website to schedule a visit online.
Skin Cancer Q & A
What are the signs of skin cancer?
There are three primary types of skin cancer, and each has slightly different symptoms.
Basal cell carcinoma
The most common type of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, sits in the deepest layers of your skin. Signs of this type of skin cancer include:
- Sores that heal and re-open
- Flat, scaly scars with a waxy appearance
- Pearly white bumps
If you notice these unusual lesions, make an appointment with Dr. Keene.
Squamous cell carcinoma
The second most common type of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, can look like:
- A firm, red nodule
- Flat sores with a scaly crust
- Sore or raised area that’s new or at the site of an old scar
Precancerous lesions, known as actinic keratoses, often show up before full-blown squamous cell carcinoma.
Malignant melanoma
Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer. It forms in the melanin-producing cells in the bottom layer of your skin. Melanoma often grows inside existing moles and can cause them to develop:
- Irregular borders
- Varying shades of color
- A large size
- Asymmetrical shapes
Melanoma spreads far more readily and quickly than other forms of skin cancer and can become deadly.
Who is at risk of developing skin cancer?
Skin cancer can run in your family. You are also susceptible if you have a lot of moles. Other factors that increase your risk include:
- Childhood history of sunburns
- Ultraviolet light exposure in tanning beds
- Fair skin and light complexion
- A weakened immune system
People who had skin cancer in the past are at a greater risk of recurrence. Dr. Keene does a thorough, full-body skin check and reviews your medical history to evaluate your risk.
How is skin cancer treated?
Dr. Keene will perform a biopsy procedure if you have a suspicious spot. A biopsy involves cutting away the affected mole or taking a small skin sample and sending it off to a laboratory to determine if it is cancerous.
He can treat minor cases of skin cancer with:
- Liquid nitrogen freezing
- Curettage and desiccation
- Prescription medicated creams
Skin cancer that has spread, or that is especially large, advanced, or diffuse may require a referral to a skin cancer specialist.
If you’re due for a skin check or have found a suspicious mole, make an appointment at the office of Jaggers Keene, MD, today. Call or use the website to reach out.
