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Your skin is one of your body’s most important organs, and protecting it means staying vigilant about changes or unusual spots. At CSC Steil Dermatology in Hinsdale and Downers Grove, Illinois, the experienced dermatology team provides thorough skin exams to identify potential skin cancers early, when treatment is most effective. Early detection can impact outcomes and give you peace of mind. Schedule your skin cancer screening today by calling the friendly office or booking online now.
How does a skin cancer diagnosis work?
A skin cancer diagnosis usually begins when you have a routine skin exam or when you notice a suspicious spot on your skin. Your CSC Steil Dermatology professional carefully examines your skin for any irregular growths, discolorations, or changes in existing moles.
If a spot looks concerning, your provider may perform a skin biopsy, a minor procedure where they remove a small sample of your skin and send it to a lab for testing. This allows them to determine if you have a cancerous growth, and, if so, what type it is.
What happens if I have a skin cancer diagnosis?
Your dermatologist discusses the type and stage of the skin cancer and explains your treatment options. They may also recommend additional imaging or tests in rare cases, depending on the type of skin cancer and whether there’s concern that it could have spread.
A diagnosis also allows your CSC Steil Dermatology healthcare team to create a personalized plan to address the cancer effectively and safely.
Does a skin cancer diagnosis mean I have a life-threatening condition?
Not necessarily. The vast majority of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, are highly treatable and rarely life-threatening when detected early.
Melanoma is a more aggressive type of skin cancer that can be more serious, but early detection can significantly increase your chance of successful treatment.
How is skin cancer treated?
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer.
The SCS Steil Dermatology team may use any of the following common approaches:
- Surgical excision (removing the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of healthy skin
- Mohs surgery (a precise technique that removes cancer layer by layer while preserving healthy tissue, often used for facial cancers)
- Topical medications or creams (for certain superficial skin cancers)
- Laser therapy or light-based treatments (used in select cases)
- Radiation or systemic therapies (occasionally recommended for advanced cases)
The team performs most treatments in-office, with high success rates. Recovery is generally straightforward, and your dermatologist provides guidance for wound care and follow-up appointments.
If you notice any new or changing spots on your skin, schedule a consultation with your CSC Steil Dermatology professional promptly by phone or online.