Skin Cancer

At the Maryland Skin, Vein and Laser Institute, we are board-certified dermatologists, the experts in skin cancer. We understand the different forms of skin cancer, their diagnosis, and treatment. We offer full body skin examinations including the use of state-of-the-art epiluminescence microscopy. This involves using a special instrument which allows magnification of suspicious lesions to help determine whether they should be biopsied. Our doctors can diagnose precancerous actinic keratosis, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and the most dangerous malignant melanoma. Treatments offered include laser surgery (Erbium:YAG and CO2), curettage and electrodessication, shave removal, cryosurgery or liquid nitrogen, and/or topical medications. Consultation with your doctor will help guide you for what is best for your particular diagnosis. Some patients may need a type of surgery called Mohs' micrographic surgery; we refer to such physicians. We strongly encourage all of our patients with a history of sunburns, personal or family history of skin cancer, overexposure to the sun, or participation in outdoor recreation to come to the office for periodic full-body skin examinations to detect the potential changes of skin cancer early. We also strongly encourage everyone to be aware of the moles and growths on their skin and to contact us if areas darken, change, grow or bleed. Be aware of the ABCDE's of melanoma: asymmetry, irregular borders and colors, diameter greater than a pencil eraser, and enlargement.