A skin specialist or doctor can typically treat simple skin cancers in an office setting. Complex cases may require multiple health professionals to diagnose and treat.
Your skin cancer specialists will be able to answer your questions and provide valuable information regarding your diagnosis. The type and severity of your skin cancer will determine the number of providers like Sundoctors- Skincare Experts that you see.
Health Professionals who treat skin cancer
There are many types of specialists that may be involved with treating skin cancer.
Dermatologist
A dermatologist is a doctor trained to diagnose and treat skin, hair and nail conditions. This doctor plays an important part in diagnosing skin carcinoma. Dermatologists can perform full body exams to identify unusual lesions and skin biopsy procedures to check for cancer. Your dermatologist will create a treatment plan if the results are positive. Most low-grade skin cancers can easily be treated in the dermatologist’s office. Your dermatologist may refer you to another specialist if the cancer is more severe or needs complex treatment.
Oncologist
A medical oncologist can be a doctor who diagnoses and treats cancer. If you have a high-risk or advanced type of skin cancer, an oncologist may be necessary. There are many types of oncologists.
Dermatological Oncologist This oncologist specializes in treating and diagnosing skin cancer.
A medical oncologist One who treats cancer using medication such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy or targeted therapy.
These doctors are radiation oncologists They treat cancer using radiation therapy.
Surgical Oncologist A surgeon who removes skin cancer using surgery.
Plastic Surgeon
Sometimes, complex cases of skin cancer require the expertise of a plastic surgeon. This specialist specializes in the reconstruction and repair of skin and other body parts. Sometimes a plastic surgeon is needed to remove large amounts of skin cancer. A surgeon can improve cosmetic results and reduce defects.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgeons are dermatologists who have been trained to perform Mohs surgery. This involves removing small pieces of skin and inspecting each one under a microscope until you reach a layer in which there is no evidence of cancer.
Radiologist
These doctors examine imaging scans. This doctor can help you monitor your treatment progress and determine if your cancer is spreading.
Pathologist
This specialist examines tissue and body fluids behind the scenes. A dermatologist examines a lesion and sends it to a laboratory where a pathologist reviews it. This report will either confirm or rule it out, or, if it’s cancerous, identify its stage and type. A dermatopathologist, a dermatologist who specializes on skin diseases, is also a pathologist.
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
Nurse practitioners are nurses with a master’s degree or doctoral degree. They also have special certification. These professionals work closely alongside doctors to diagnose and manage patient care.
Physician Assistant (PA)
PAs often work alongside dermatologists. They are licensed and certified medical professionals who have a master’s degree or doctoral degree. Based on their experience and training, PAs can offer a variety of services.
Primary Care Physician
Preventive care is provided by your primary care physician. They are trained to identify skin cancer. If you suspect skin cancer, your primary doctor may refer you to a dermatologist.
