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Skin CancerA biopsy refers to the removal of a small amount of tissue. It is a significant diagnosis tool for doctors in the detection of various types of skin cancer.

Following a biopsy, the medical dermatology team completes various steps before the pathologist arrives at a diagnosis. A pathologist is a doctor who is a specialist in the interpretation of lab tests and assessing tissues, cells, and organs to detect disease.

Suncoast Skin Solutions, led by the astute board certified dermatologist Dr. Christopher Ewanowski, provides proven and effective skin care treatments to patients in Tampa, Brandon, Lutz, Seminole, Riverview, Brookesville, Winter Haven, Daytona Beach, Largo, St. Petersburg, Ocala, The Villages Central Florida, Florida, and surrounding locations in the illustrious Sunshine State.

 

Looking at the Slides under a Microscope

The pathologist looks at the slides with the sections of the specimen using a microscope. After that, the pathologist develops a pathology report on the basis of what they view under the microscope.

This report is quite technical and contains terms that are meaningful to other pathologists and medical professionals. In general, the pathologist provides a description of:

  • Types of cells
  • The arrangement of the cells
  • Whether the cells appear abnormal
  • Other attributes vital for a diagnosis

At times, the pathologist may want to view more tissue prior to making a diagnosis. They will note this in the report.

 

Possible Need for Follow-Up Tests

There may be a requirement to repeat certain tests that were performed to diagnose cancer or detect its stage. Some tests will be done again to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. These tests will also form the basis for decisions on whether to continue, alter, or stop treatment.

Certain tests will be performed repetitively in intervals until the treatment is complete. The outcomes of these tests can highlight whether the patient’s condition has changed or if cancer has come back (recurred). At times, these tests are known as follow-up tests or check-ups.

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma have a higher likelihood of recurrence, typically within five years or new tumors may develop. Consult your doctor on how frequently you should have your skin examined for cancer signs.

 

Treatment Options for Basal Cell Carcinomas and Squamous Cells Carcinoma

The treatment of localized basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma treatment may include:

  • Simple excision
  • Radiation
  • Mohs microscopic surgery
  • Curettage and electrodesiccation
  • Cyrosurgery
  • Photodynamic therapy
  • Topical chemotherapy
  • Topical immunotherapy (imiquimod)
  • Laser surgery (used rarely)

The treatment of metastatic or resistant to local therapy squamous cell carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma may include:

  • Focused therapy with a signal transduction inhibitor (vismodegib or sonidegib)
  • A clinical trial of a new treatment

The treatment of recurring non-metastatic basal cell carcinoma may include:

  • Mohs micrographic surgery
  • Simple excision

 

Treatment Options for Actinic Keratosis

While actinic keratosis is not cancer, it needs treatment as it may develop into cancer. The treatment options for this condition include:

  • Topical immunotherapy (imiquimod)
  • Chemical peel
  • Topical chemotherapy
  • Dermabrasion
  • Curettage and electrodesiccation
  • Shave excision
  • Simple excision
  • Photodynamic therapy
  • Laser surgery
  • Other drug therapy (diclofenac or ingenol)

The accomplished Dr. Ewanowski’s skin care clinic is equipped to provide advanced medical and aesthetic skin care solutions to patients in Tampa, Brandon, Lutz, Seminole, Riverview, Brookesville, Winter Haven, Daytona Beach, Largo, St. Petersburg, Ocala, The Villages Central Florida, Florida, and nearby areas.

 

SunCoast Skin Solutions Dermatology offices are located in Tampa / Hillsborough, St. Petersburg / Pinellas County, Brandon, Lutz (2 locations), Winter Haven, Largo, Riverview, Brooksville, Ocala, Largo at Bardmoor, Daytona Beach, Sarasota, and Palm Harbor, Florida. Contact us at 1-844-786-3376 or click here.