Norman Brooks, MD, is a University of Colorado graduate who completed specialized postdoctoral training in dermatology, Mohs micrographic surgery, and dermatopathology. Currently serving as the director of the Skin Cancer Medical Center in California, Dr. Norman Brooks treats various types of skin cancer with proven techniques.
When people notice a skin abnormality, it’s not always easy to determine whether it needs medical attention. Don’t ignore potential skin problems that can evolve into a life-threatening disease. For instance, dry scaly patches that persist for more than a few weeks can signal a precancerous skin condition known actinic keratosis (AK).
Generally developing in sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, and hands, AK patches feel more rough, tender, and itchy than the skin around them. The area also may have a pinkish or yellowish tinge. These patches usually start very small, about a quarter of an inch in diameter, but grow wider. If the dry, itchy area is thick, large, or has a horn shape, a biopsy is generally recommended. If ignored, AK can transform into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a common type of skin cancer. However, AK can be easily treated by freezing the area with liquid nitrogen.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.