At Advanced Dermatology, with locations in Acworth and Douglasville, Georgia, Dr. Amr Agha, MD, provides expert evaluation and diagnosis for all types of skin cancer. Early detection is critical, since when skin cancer is caught in its earliest stages, treatment is usually more effective and less invasive. Knowing how skin cancer specialists make and confirm a diagnosis can help patients understand the process and feel more confident about their care.

Recognizing Suspicious Changes

Diagnosis begins with a thorough skin examination. Dr. Agha carefully checks any spots, moles, or patches of skin that have changed in size, shape, or color, or that look different from surrounding areas. Warning signs can include irregular borders, uneven pigmentation, itching, bleeding, or sores that don’t heal. Patients are encouraged to point out any areas that have caught their attention, even if they seem minor.

Dermatoscopic Examination

To get a clearer view of suspicious lesions, a dermatoscope, a specialized magnifying tool with light, is often used. This allows skin cancer specialists like Dr. Agha to see structures and patterns that aren’t visible to the naked eye, making it easier to distinguish between harmless growths and potential cancers.

Skin Biopsy For Definitive Diagnosis

If a lesion appears suspicious, the next step is a biopsy. This involves removing a small sample of skin at Advanced Dermatology’s offices for examination under a microscope by a dermatopathologist. There are several biopsy techniques, such as shave, punch, or excisional biopsy, chosen based on the size and location of the lesion. The biopsy not only confirms whether cancer is present but also identifies its type.

Identifying The Type Of Skin Cancer

The most common types are:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): Often appears as a pearly bump or flesh-colored growth, usually caused by long-term sun exposure.
  
  
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): May look like a red, scaly patch or a sore that doesn’t heal.
  
  
• Melanoma: Typically develops in a mole or new dark spot and can spread quickly if not treated early.

Each type requires a specific approach to treatment, making accurate diagnosis essential.

Full-Body Skin Checks For Prevention

Because skin cancer can develop in unexpected places, full-body skin examinations at our Acworth and Douglasville offices are an important part of preventive care. Dr. Agha recommends regular screenings based on each patient’s risk factors, such as family history, sun exposure, or previous skin cancers.

Partnering For Long-Term Skin Health

At Advanced Dermatology, diagnosing skin cancer is about more than identifying a problem. It’s about protecting patients’ health over the long term. Dr. Amr Agha works with patients to remove dangerous lesions, watch for future changes, and provide education on sun safety and self-exams.

If you’ve noticed any new or changing spots on your skin, scheduling an evaluation with a skin cancer specialist is the most important step you can take toward early detection and effective treatment. Call our Acworth and Douglasville, Georgia, offices at (770) 739-7546.