Skin Cancer Awareness
Skin cancer doesn’t just affect sunbathers — it affects everyone. From long days on the field to working outdoors, daily sun exposure adds up. Learn how to protect your skin, spot early signs, and get expert care from St. Joseph’s trusted dermatologist.
Early Detection Is Key
Skin cancer is one of the most common — and most treatable — forms of cancer when caught early. That’s why annual skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist are so important. Early signs can be subtle, but identifying changes in moles, spots, or rough patches can lead to early intervention and better outcomes. Whether it’s a harmless freckle or something more, having it checked could make all the difference.
Types of Skin Cancer
Basal Cell - Squamous Cell - Melanoma - Actinic Keratosis - Merkel Cell
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, typically appearing as a pearly bump, pink patch, or sore that doesn’t heal. It usually develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, neck, or backs of the hands — with the nose being a particularly common site. While BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can become locally invasive, damaging skin, nerves, and even bone if left untreated. BCCs are more common in people with fair skin but can occur in all skin types. They often develop after years of cumulative sun exposure or tanning bed use. Early treatment is essential to prevent disfigurement and tissue loss. Because BCC can look like a harmless blemish, annual skin exams play a key role in early detection.
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Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a red, firm bump, a rough or scaly patch, or a sore that heals and then reopens. SCC typically forms on areas with frequent sun exposure — including the face, ears, neck, arms, chest, and back. While more common in people with fair skin, SCC can affect individuals of all skin tones. If left untreated, it can grow deeper into the skin, potentially causing disfigurement or spreading to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications and ensuring a full recovery.
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Melanoma
Melanoma is the most serious and potentially life-threatening form of skin cancer. It develops from pigment-producing cells and may appear as a new mole or a change in an existing one. Warning signs include irregular borders, uneven color, asymmetry, or rapid growth. While melanomas can appear suddenly, they often arise on areas like the upper back, torso, lower legs, head, or neck. Early detection is critical — melanoma is highly treatable in its early stages, but advanced cases can spread to lymph nodes or internal organs. Use the ABCDE rule to check moles and spots: A – Asymmetry: One half doesn’t match the other B – Border: Edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred C – Color: Uneven tones or multiple colors D – Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about a pencil eraser), though not always E – Evolving: Changes in size, shape, color, or behavior If you notice a mole that’s new, different, or changing — especially one that itches or bleeds — schedule a visit with a board-certified dermatologist promptly.
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Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare but aggressive skin cancer that usually appears as a fast-growing, painless bump — typically red, pink, or purple in color. It often occurs on sun-exposed areas such as the face, head, or neck, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. MCC spreads quickly, so early detection is critical. Dr. Melody Stone and her team are trained to identify and treat even rare cancers like MCC with advanced, compassionate care.
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Actinic keratoses are rough, dry, or scaly patches that appear on areas of the skin frequently exposed to the sun — such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, forearms, and hands. They’re most common in fair-skinned adults over the age of 40 and tend to develop slowly over time. While AKs aren’t cancer, they are considered precancerous lesions, meaning they have the potential to turn into squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) if left untreated. AKs may feel like sandpaper or appear red, pink, or flesh-toned, and some may itch or become tender. Because these spots often blend in with surrounding skin, they can be easy to overlook. Regular skin checks and early treatment are important to prevent progression. Treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing), topical creams, chemical peels, or light-based therapies — depending on the number, size, and location of the lesions.
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Dr. Melody Stone
Trusted Mohs Surgery Expert
St. Joseph, MO
Dr. Melody Stone is one of the region’s most trusted experts in Mohs micrographic surgery — a precise, tissue-sparing procedure used to treat skin cancer with the highest possible cure rate. She completed specialized training in Mohs surgery and has performed countless procedures with outstanding outcomes. If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, you can feel confident knowing you’re in the care of St. Joseph’s leading expert in advanced skin cancer treatment.
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT)
Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) is a non-surgical, low-risk treatment option for certain types of skin cancer. SRT uses precise, targeted radiation to eliminate cancerous cells while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. It's a safe, effective solution for patients who prefer a non-invasive approach or may not be ideal candidates for surgery. If you've been diagnosed with skin cancer, Dr. Stone and her expert team will help you determine whether SRT is right for you.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Hear what others have experienced in their skin cancer journey.
“Dr. Stone and her team made something scary feel manageable. They caught my skin cancer early, and Mohs surgery was fast, professional, and surprisingly easy. I’m grateful for their care and follow-up.”
– Kevin T.
“From the moment I walked in, I felt taken care of. Dr. Stone explained everything with compassion and clarity. I left my appointment feeling informed, confident, and truly seen.”
– Lisa B.
"I was nervous about having surgery on my cheek, but Dr. Stone reassured me and made the whole process comfortable. You can barely see the scar, and I feel confident again."
– Sandra H.
"I came in thinking it was just a spot from sun damage — it turned out to be skin cancer. Dr. Stone caught it early, explained every step, and took care of it with Mohs surgery. I’m so thankful I didn’t wait."
– Michael R.
