Clinical Dermatology Services
Biopsy of Lesions
Skin Biopsy is a procedure performed that involves removing a portion of the skin for diagnostic testing, typically to check for skin cancer. Biopsies are performed when other diagnosis methods, like skin exams, are inconclusive. The tissue is examined by a physician in a lab who analyzes the sample.
Excision of Lesions
Excision is the process of completely removing lesions with a scalpel. Stitches are then used to close up the wound. This procedure is normally used for lesions suspected to be malignant. The excised cells may be examined under a microscope for testing.
Destruction of Lesions
Rather than remove lesions surgically, certain lesions can be destroyed using a variety of methods. Liquid nitrogen is used to rapidly freeze the targeted skin, causing the topmost layers to blister and separate. This is known as cryotherapy. Other methods include electrodessication and cautery, which destroy lesions without the need for stitches.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs Surgery is a highly specialized treatment for the total removal of skin cancers, in which the microscope is used to determine the extent of the tumor and its location. Mohs Micrographic Surgery allows for the selective removal of the skin cancer with the preservation of as much of the surrounding normal tissue as is possible.
Learn more about Mohs Surgery
Photo Dynamic Therapy – Blu U Light & Levulan®
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a topical drug, called a photosensitizer, with a special light source to treat a variety of skin disorders. The photosensitizer is absorbed into the skin so that the light source can target the deeper layers of skin.
Skin Cancer Screening
This involves a visual inspection of your skin to determine if any areas looks look potentially cancerous and require additional treatment. Early detection is the most effective form of treating skin cancers effectively, especially malignant melanoma. Melanoma has a high cure rate if caught early, before it spreads. Skin cancer screens are very important and do not require blood work.
Actinic Keratosis
Precancerous skin lesions caused by over exposure to ultraviolet (UV) solar rays or tanning beds. If left untreated actinic keratosis may turn into squamous cell carcinoma. Detection and treatment for actinic keratosis may be performed during a skin check appointment. Individual areas are treated with liquid nitrogen and large areas can be treated with Photodynamic Therapy or various topical medicines.
Moles (Nevi)
Common lesions on the skin. Moles may become irritated, itchy or may bleed. Regular skin checks and monitoring of moles will aid in the early discovery of melanoma which may grow in or near a mole. Benign moles may be removed to achieve a desired cosmetic result.
Dysplatic Nevi and atypical melanocytic hyperplasia:
These are pigmented areas that have clinical and/or histologic evidence of atypia. They are not benign and are on the spectrum leading towards Melanoma. Often times a biopsy is needed to discern a dysplastic area from a developing Melanoma. The treatment is directed at removing the process before it can develop into a Melanoma.
Seborrheic Keratosis
A benign skin lesion which may grow over time. Seborrheic keratosis may become inflamed or irritated from clothing or other trauma to the area. Reassurance of their benign nature will be provided or treatment options are available to remove seborrheic keratosis if necessary. Their removal can be deemed cosmetic and not covered by insurance.
Angiomas
A benign lesion composed of blood vessels. Angiomas may develop anywhere on the skin. Treatment for angiomas may be considered if the lesion(s) are irritated, bothersome or to achieve a desired cosmetic result.
Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Enlarged sebaceous(oil) glands is a benign condition. Irritated or unsightly lesions may be removed cosmetically by various methods to achieve a desired cosmetic result.
