When most of us think about the possibility of developing skin cancer, we most likely envision questionable lesions on parts of our bodies that experience the highest rate of sun exposure: the bridge of our nose, the flesh of our cheeks, the skin of our arms, shoulders, and upper chest. While these areas are certainly […]
skin cancer
The Reflective Truth of Higher Elevation and Skin Cancer in Coloradoans
Even though summer has come to an end and winter is upon us, sunscreen use is just as important. Exposure to the sun during winter months can increase significantly for most Coloradans and put us at an even higher risk for skin cancer, especially for skiers and snowboarders. Colorado is known for its endless outdoor […]
Understanding The Three Major Types of Skin Cancer
Of all the dermatologic concerns facing Vanguard patients, one of the most common—and certainly the most worrisome—is skin cancer. Skin cancer is so common, in fact, that it accounts for more cancer diagnoses in the United States each year than all other forms of cancer combined. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will […]
Should I Be Worried If I’m Diagnosed with an Atypical Mole?
The problem with diagnosing moles and weeding out the potentially harmful from the benign is that moles are incredibly common. In fact, nearly everyone in the United States has at least one common mole, and those who do typically have several. Common moles are harmless and very rarely develop into skin cancers. However, the distinction […]
Skin Cancer on the Red Carpet – A Patient Story
As a dermatologist who specializes in skin cancer, I’ve been trained to spot abnormal lesions. Like a well-trained bomb-sniffing dog, it’s difficult for me to turn off this function. As a rule, I keep to myself in public, and my role as a dermatologist is nearly always performed within the clinical setting of Vanguard Skin […]
Skin Cancer Awareness: Early Detection and Prevention are Key
By Michael Leslie, MD, PhD As May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, I would like to take this opportunity to encourage each and every one of you to take a moment for self-care. With our hectic lifestyles and numerous obligations, it is easy to overlook the importance of a routine skin exam or push it […]
Topical Chemotherapy for Skin Cancer: What is it and When is it the Right Treatment Option?
One of our greatest responsibilities at Vanguard Skin Specialists is the detection and treatment of skin cancer. While all skin cancers should be taken seriously, treatment options do vary depending on their type and severity. For many cases, Mohs Micrographic Surgery offers the best cure rate. For others, liquid nitrogen may be applied as a […]