Cochise Oncology

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Is Skin Cancer Curable?

If you have concerns that a skin spot might be something to worry about, you are not alone. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US, affecting one in five adults. Fortunately, diagnosing and treating skin cancer in its early stages can lead to complete removal.

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer occurs when different types of skin cells start to grow abnormally. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas form in layers of the skin. Melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, forms in cells called melanocytes that produce pigment. As a result, melanoma skin cancers often look like oddly shaped, colored, or sized moles. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas can look like bumps, flaky patches, or sores. They may have an odd color, itch, or refuse to heal.

Is Skin Cancer Curable?

Skin cancer is highly treatable when discovered and removed early. People who have skin cancer removed before it spreads have a better than 99% survival rate. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas do not usually spread, but they can invade deeper layers of the skin. Melanoma is the most likely skin cancer to spread to other areas, such as lymph nodes.

How is Skin Cancer Treated?

Skin cancer is often diagnosed with a biopsy, a sample of the potentially cancerous spot. If the biopsy indicates skin cancer, your team will assess whether the cancer is limited to your skin. If the skin cancer has not spread, it can be removed with several methods, including:

Topical (applied to the skin) chemotherapy
Cryotherapy to freeze cancer cells
Excision (removing the cancer cells with an incision)
Radiation therapy

Skin cancers that have progressed beyond the skin will be treated with a combination of treatments depending on your needs. Your treatment team may recommend chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or a combination of these.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

What are the Risk Factors for Skin Cancer?

To become skin cancer, skin cells must have damage to their DNA that prevents them from controlling their growth. The largest part of this damage comes from DNA-breaking UV rays. Other risk factors for skin cancer include:

Family history
Fair skin and red or blonde hair
History of sunburns
A large number of moles
History of outdoor tanning or tanning beds

Even people with none of these risk factors can develop skin cancer.

How Can You Prevent Skin Cancer?

Anyone can develop skin cancer, so the best protection is to make sure you know your skin’s “normal” and address any changes. A yearly skin cancer screening lets your doctor spot any changes and take action. Cancers caught during screening are usually in an early stage and are easily treatable.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.