EXPERT skin cancer detection & treatment

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, but when detected early, it is highly treatable. At Glazer Dermatology, we provide comprehensive skin cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment for patients throughout Chicago's North Shore and northwest suburbs.

Our providers diagnose and treat all major forms of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Whether you have noticed a changing mole, a non-healing sore, or simply need an annual skin examination, our team is committed to helping you protect your skin and your health.

Screening

The Importance of Skin Cancer Screening

Many skin cancers develop gradually and may not cause symptoms in their early stages. Regular skin examinations can identify suspicious lesions before they become more serious, allowing for earlier treatment and improved outcomes.

You may benefit from routine skin cancer screenings if you have:

  • A personal or family history of skin cancer

  • A history of significant sun exposure or tanning bed use

  • Fair skin, light eyes, or a tendency to burn easily

  • Numerous moles or atypical moles

  • New, changing, or concerning skin lesions

Detection

Skin cancer can appear in many different ways. Warning signs may include:

  • A new growth on the skin

  • A sore that does not heal

  • A spot that bleeds, crusts, or repeatedly returns

  • A mole that changes in size, shape, color, or texture

  • A lesion that looks different from your other moles

If you notice any concerning changes, we encourage prompt evaluation.

Treatment

Treatment recommendations are based on the type, size, location, and severity of the skin cancer. Our providers offer a full range of treatment options, including:

  • Surgical excision

  • Electrodesiccation and curettage

  • Cryotherapy

  • Topical therapies

  • Superficial Radiation Therapy

  • Ongoing surveillance and follow-up care

We work closely with each patient to develop an individualized treatment plan focused on achieving the best possible outcome while preserving both function and cosmetic appearance.

Protection

Preventing skin cancer begins with daily sun protection. We recommend:

  • Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher

  • Protective clothing and hats when outdoors

  • Seeking shade during peak sun hours

  • Avoiding indoor tanning beds

  • Routine skin examinations with a dermatology provider

The storefront of Glazer Dermatology with large glass windows and the company's logo and name displayed on the door.

SCHEDULE a skin check.

Early detection saves lives. Whether you need a routine skin cancer screening or evaluation of a concerning spot, the team at Glazer Dermatology is here to help.

Schedule your appointment today and take an important step toward protecting your long-term skin health.

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skin cancer FAQ

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

  • Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops from cells in the outer layer of the skin and is most often caused by cumulative sun exposure over time.

    While basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can continue to grow locally and damage surrounding tissue if left untreated.

  • Basal cell carcinoma may appear as:

    • A pearly or shiny bump

    • A pink patch that does not heal

    • A sore that repeatedly bleeds or crusts

    • A scar-like area without a history of injury

    • A persistent spot that slowly enlarges

  • Treatment depends on the size, location, and subtype of the cancer. Options may include:

    • Surgical excision

    • Electrodesiccation and curettage

    • Topical medications

    • Mohs surgery (when appropriate)

    • Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)

    Most basal cell carcinomas are highly curable when detected early.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

  • Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It develops from the squamous cells that make up much of the skin's surface.

    Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma has a greater potential to spread if left untreated, making early diagnosis especially important.

  • Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as:

    • A rough, scaly patch

    • A firm red bump

    • A persistent sore

    • A crusted or wart-like growth

    • A tender lesion that continues to enlarge

  • Treatment options may include:

    • Surgical excision

    • Mohs surgery

    • Electrodesiccation and curettage

    • Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)

    Most squamous cell carcinomas can be treated successfully when identified early.

Melanoma

  • Melanoma is a less common but more serious form of skin cancer that develops from pigment-producing cells called melanocytes.

    When detected early, melanoma is highly treatable. However, melanoma has a greater ability to spread to other parts of the body than other skin cancers.

  • Patients should be familiar with the ABCDE warning signs:

    • A – Asymmetry: One half does not match the other.

    • B – Border: Irregular, blurred, or uneven edges.

    • C – Color: Multiple shades or uneven pigmentation.

    • D – Diameter: Larger than 6 mm, although melanomas can be smaller.

    • E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or symptoms.

  • Treatment depends on the stage and depth of the melanoma and may include:

    • Surgical excision

    • Sentinel lymph node evaluation

    • Medical oncology consultation when appropriate

    • Long-term surveillance and skin examinations

    Routine skin checks and early detection remain the most effective tools for improving outcomes.

Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)

  • Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) is a non-surgical treatment option for select basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.

    SRT uses low-energy radiation to precisely target cancer cells while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

    At Glazer Dermatology, we utilize Sensus SRT technology to provide an alternative treatment option for carefully selected patients.

  • SRT may be appropriate for patients who:

    • Prefer a non-surgical option

    • Are not ideal surgical candidates

    • Have lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas

    • Are taking medications that increase surgical risk

    • Desire treatment without stitches or a surgical scar

    Not all skin cancers are appropriate for SRT, and treatment recommendations are individualized.

  • Potential advantages include:

    • Non-invasive treatment

    • No surgical incision

    • No stitches

    • Excellent cosmetic outcomes

    • Minimal recovery time

    • High cure rates for appropriately selected lesions

  • Treatment is performed in the office over a series of brief visits. Most patients are able to continue normal daily activities throughout the treatment process.

    A consultation with one of our providers can determine whether SRT is an appropriate option for your skin cancer.