Skin Cancer

• Melanoma
• Basal Cell Carcinoma
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma
• Actinic Keratosis
• Atypical Mole
• Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. People of all colors and races can get skin cancer. There are many different types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Sun damage can also cause the development of actinic keratosis (AK), which have the potential to develop into SCC. BCC and SCC are the most common forms of skin cancer, but melanoma is the most deadly. Skin cancer can have a high cure rate when detected early.

Some common ways we treat skin cancer at Modern Dermatology Atlanta:

• Topical chemotherapeutic and immunomodulating creams (non-invasive)
• Curettage and electrodessication
• Surgical excision

If a skin cancer requires specialized treatment such as Mohs Micrographic Surgery, radiotherapy, or treatment by a surgical oncologist we will help you coordinate your care with the appropriate specialist.

A skin cancer screening is a visual inspection of your skin that includes both covered and non-covered areas of the body. A yearly examination by a dermatologist and regular self-skin exams can help find skin cancers early. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an annual screening of your skin by a medical professional.

Atypical Moles

Atypical moles can have the following appearance: 

• Asymmetry
• Border irregularity
• Color variation
• Diameter > 6 mm

Atypical moles should be closely evaluated by a dermatologist to determine if they appear concerning for melanoma. Individuals who have numerous atypical moles should be monitored closely with regular skin exams because they may be at higher risk of developing melanoma. 

Acne

Acne develops from a combination of factors including stress, hormones, and food. The earliest form of acne is a comedone (clogged pore) and the most advanced form is an inflammatory cyst (pore that ruptures under the skin).

Severe acne can present in unexpected locations. Dissecting cellulitis is a form of acne that affects the scalp and can cause hair loss. Hidradenitis suppurativa is a form of acne that affects the body folds and can cause severe scarring. This form of severe acne is often misdiagnosed as an infection.

A comprehensive treatment approach addresses both the obstructed pore and the inflammation by treating all of the above listed factors that contribute to disease.

Acne scarring can be disfiguring and long term. Controlling acne is the first step in minimizing scarring followed by consideration for topical medications and ablative procedures (ex. chemical peels) to even out uneven skin tone and collagen inducing procedures (microneedling, laser) for more severe scarring.

Inflammatory skin disease

Inflammatory skin diseases can cause disfiguring changes to the skin and be associated with debilitating itching or pain. They are usually chronic (no cure exists) and develop from a host of different unrestrained immune responses.

There have been a number of breakthrough immunomodulators (Enbrel, Dupixent, Humira, Otezla, Remicade, Rituxan, Stelara, Taltz), depending on the type of inflammation, that that been developed if you suffer from a severe form of inflammation.

There are numerous forms of inflammatory skin. Common ones are:

• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Lichen planus
• Skin allergies to drugs or topical agents

Skin Infections

Common skin infections treated by dermatologists include:

• Warts
• Impetigo
• Boils
• Ringworm
• Nail fungus
• Cold sores
• Genital warts

Hair Loss

Hair loss can be caused by a number of factors ranging from inflammatory disease to genetic predisposition. Hair loss requires an extensive initial evaluation. Sometimes a hair follicle biopsy is necessary. Treatments exist that have the potential to slow down the rate of hair loss and help regrow hair.

An exciting new therapy emerging for certain types of loss is Platelet Rich Plasma therapy. For the right individual, this treatment, which uses your own growth factors, can both increase the amount and fullness of hair.

Pigmentary Disorders

Even skin tone is an aesthetic goal for individuals of all colors and races. However, pigmentary disorders are especially noticeable and impactful on the quality of life of individuals with a darker skin type

Examples of pigmentary disorders include:

• Melasma
• Post inflammatory pigmentation (eg acne scarring)
• Vitiligo

Growths

Skin growths can develop from many different cell types that exist in the skin. Even when benign they make grow to a size that creates discomfort or makes them unsightly.

Some common skin growths that can be removed in an office setting under local anesthesia include:

• Pilar cysts (scalp cysts)
• Epidermal cysts
• Lipomas
• Traumatized moles