Aspire Care Clinic

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Skin Cancers

Many patients that are referred to Aspire Care Clinic require skin cancer assessments. When skin cancers are suspected, a visual skin check of the area of concern is completed and a small biopsy may be taken and sent to the lab to confirm the presence of a cancer.

Skin cancers are more common in older adults but can also appear in younger adults and in rare cases, even children. Individuals who are most susceptible to skin cancers are ones with fair skin, a family history of skin cancer and having an increased number of moles. Skin cancer is most commonly caused by exposure to ultraviolet radiation (sunlight and tanning beds). There are other risk factors involved including genetic conditions, a history of smoking, HPV, immunosuppression, and long standing skin diseases and scars where the skin’s integrity has been compromised.

The most common types of skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. If the biopsy taken of the area confirms a skin cancer, your doctor will excise the remaining cancer cells. This procedure is fairly simple but will require the use of sutures to close the excision. A nurse will go over wound care with you and advise you when to have your sutures removed.

FACE

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BODY

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HAIR

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MEN

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BCC

Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma, also known as BCC, is the most common form of skin cancer and is rarely life threatening. The main symptoms of BCC involve a slow growing ulcer or nodule that can be skin coloured, pink or pigmented (brown colouring). Basal cell sites can vary in size and are prone to spontaneous bleeding if irritated.

Basal cell carcinomas can be treated with a variety of methods including cryotherapy, skin shaves, excisions or a topical cytoxic cream that is applied directly to the area of concern.

SCC

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of keratinocyte cancer, originating in cells that produce keratin—essential for skin, hair, and nails. This skin cancer can be invasive, growing below the epidermis. Typically presenting as scaly lumps, often arising from actinic keratosis, SCCs can be tender, painful, and resistant to healing. With increased sun exposure as a risk factor, treatment involves techniques like skin shaving or excision, often requiring lab analysis to ensure complete removal. Sutures close the treated area post-procedure.

Melanoma

 

 

Melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer, involves uncontrolled pigment cell (melanocyte) growth. Also known as malignant melanoma, it poses a higher risk with a family history, previous basal or squamous cell carcinoma, or numerous moles. Initially resembling an unusual mole, melanomas can vary in size and color, ranging from tan to black, with evolving pigments. Asymmetrical with irregular borders, they change in size over time. Treatment involves wide excision based on depth and width, ensuring thorough removal. Sutures close the wound, and regular skin checks with follow-ups at Aspire Care Clinic are essential post-procedure.

At Aspire Care Cosmetic Clinic, scheduling a cosmetic consultation is hassle-free, and no referral is needed. However, if your concern leans towards a medical issue, we may guide you to our Skin Clinic. It’s important to note that for consultations with Dr. Wang in our Skin Clinic, an Alberta Health Services (AHS) requirement may necessitate a referral from a licensed medical professional. Examples of such professionals include medical doctors, audiologists, registered midwives, chiropractors, podiatrists, dentists, optometrists, physical therapists, and nurse practitioners. Additionally, please be aware that AHS may require a referral, and it may expire if you haven’t seen Dr. Wang within a year.