Understanding skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. It begins when abnormal skin cells grow uncontrollably, often due to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When caught early, most skin cancers are highly treatable.

At Endeavor Health, we offer comprehensive care for all types of skin cancer — from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment. Our team of specialists use the latest technologies and innovation to support your journey. Whether you need a second opinion or you’re managing a current diagnosis, we’re here to help.

Woman looking at her skin in the mirror

Types of skin cancer

Basal cell carcinoma
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Squamous cell carcinoma
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Melanoma
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Rare skin cancers (Merkel cell, sebaceous gland carcinoma, etc.)
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Tests and screenings

Early detection greatly improves outcomes. At Endeavor Health, we provide advanced diagnostic tools to identify skin cancers quickly and accurately.

Diagnostic tests may include:

  • Full-body dermatologic evaluations
  • Dermoscopy and digital mole mapping
  • Biopsies performed by oncology dermatologists
  • Molecular and genetic analysis as needed

Learn more about diagnostics and screenings

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, often appearing on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck or ears.

  • Pearl-like or waxy bump
  • Flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
  • Bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns
  • Physical skin exam with a dermatologist
  • Skin biopsy for confirmation
     
  • Surgical excision
  • Mohs microscopic surgery
  • Topical medications
  • Cryotherapy or photodynamic therapy
  • Targeted therapies and immunotherapy for advanced cases

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer there is. Typically, it’s found on sun-exposed areas and known to grow faster than BCC.

  • Firm red nodule
  • Scaly or crusted patch of skin
  • A sore that doesn’t seem to heal
  • Dermatologic assessment
  • Skin biopsy
     
  • Surgical removal
  • Mohs surgery
  • Radiation therapy for deep lesions and if surgery may lead to a cosmetically unappealing outcome (ears, nose, nasolabial fold, etc.)
  • Intralesional therapy (e.g., TVEC) for injectable tumors
  • Immunotherapy in advanced cases

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It can spread quickly and may appear anywhere on the body, even on areas that aren’t exposed to the sun.

  • A new mole or a change in an existing one
  • Asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colors
  • Itching, bleeding or rapid growth
  • Full-body skin check
  • Biopsy and sentinel lymph node mapping
  • Genetic testing for high-risk cases
     
  • Wide local excision
  • Immunotherapy
  • Targeted therapy based on mutation testing (e.g., BRAF)
  • Intralesional therapy (e.g., TVEC) for injectable tumors
  • Isolated limb infusion for regionally advanced disease affecting a limb
  • Lymph node dissection if further spread is suspected

Rare skin cancers

Rare skin cancers include Merkel cell carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and others that require highly-specialized expertise.

  • Quickly growing painless nodule
  • Lesions that don’t heal or bleed easily
  • Unusual or changing skin growths
  • Skin exam and biopsy
  • Imaging to check for metastasis
     
  • Surgery
  • Radiation
  • Immunotherapy in advanced cases
  • Intralesional therapy (e.g., TVEC) for injectable tumors
  • Multimodal care in advanced cases

Why choose Endeavor Health?

Our coordinated team brings you advanced diagnostics, multidisciplinary care and a patient-first approach. We’re here to help you get the best care available.

Our skin care team includes dermatologists, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists and pathologists — all working together for the best outcomes.

We offer Mohs surgery, wide excisions and reconstruction for optimal cosmetic preservation.

From early-stage to advanced melanoma, we tailor treatment to you, based on your tumor genetics and personal goals.

Our care includes compassion from the beginning, with support from nurse navigators, guidance on survivorship planning, nutrition, behavioral health support and more.

Skin cancer FAQs

Look for new or changing spots, unusual moles, non-healing sores or lesions that bleed, itch or grow.

Yes, especially when detected early. Most basal and squamous cell cancers are curable. Early-stage melanoma also has a high survival rate. With immunotherapy, advanced melanoma, Merkel cell cancer, squamous cell and basal cell cancers can often be cured too.

Not always. While surgery is common, some skin cancers may be treated with topical medications, immunotherapy or radiation, depending on type and stage.

We provide leading-edge care close to home, with subspecialty expertise and advanced technologies, all within our health system.

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Clinical trials & research

Endeavor Health offers access to innovative therapies for melanoma and other skin cancers, often before they’re widely available.

Learn more about clinical trials

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Make an appointment

If you’ve noticed anything concerning regarding your skin or have been diagnosed with skin cancer and want a second opinion, our team is here to help.

Schedule an appointment
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The Endeavor Health Cancer Institute delivers expert, compassionate care through personalized treatment plans, advanced technologies and dedicated support teams — all close to home.

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