Rare Skin Cancers
While there are three main types of skin cancer, there are also rarer skin cancers that require special attention. At the Skin Cancer Center of Goodman Dermatology, we specialize in treating these types of skin cancer, and welcome patients to our locations in Roswell, Marietta / East Cobb, Woodstock and Dawsonville, GA.
What are Rare Skin Cancers?
Rare skin cancers are any type of skin cancer that is not considered melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, or squamous cell carcinoma. Since these cancer types are less common, they may require a different treatment approach than the more commonly diagnosed skin cancer conditions. As always, early detection of these skin cancers can make a huge difference in the success of treatment. These rare skin cancers can include:
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma
- A cancer that affects the merkel cells, and may cause sensations of touch in the affected areas.
- Kaposi Sarcoma
- A cancer caused by the herpes virus, which typically affects patients with weakened immune systems.
- Lymphoma of the Skin
- A type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that may affect the skin or other areas of the body.
- Actinic Keratosis
- A pre-cancerous growth that may develop into cancer if left untreated.
How Much Does Rare Skin Cancer Treatment Cost?
The cost of your rare skin cancer treatment will vary depending on the extent of treatment necessary, and may be covered by insurance. At Goodman Dermatology, we understand that each patient is entirely unique. With different skin types and treatment needs, each patient deserves a personalized treatment that is designed with them in mind. For these reasons, we are not able to provide an exact cost for treatment until we have the opportunity to assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan.
During your consultation, we will discuss your needs in order to determine your treatment plan and inform you of the cost of your rare skin cancer treatment. To make our treatments more affordable for our patients, we are proud to offer financing options through CareCredit®.
What is the Rare Skin Cancer Treatment Like?
The Skin Cancer Center of Goodman Dermatology specializes in a range of skin cancer treatments. For rare skin cancers, the treatment techniques we recommend will vary depending on the type of cancer as well as the affected areas. To learn more about the treatment techniques we offer, please refer to our skin cancer treatments.
In any case, the goal of skin cancer treatment is to remove the cancerous growth from the body to prevent it from spreading. This is typically done using surgical techniques, and anesthetics will always be used for your comfort and safety.
Are There Any Side Effects After Rare Skin Cancer Treatment?
The side effects from your skin cancer treatment will depend on the treatment technique used. For surgical techniques, patients may experience scarring, swelling, bruising, or sensitivity in the treatment area. However, most side effects resolve within a few weeks of treatment.
Is There Any Downtime Required After Rare Skin Cancer Treatment?
The downtime from skin cancer treatment is usually minimal, as you will be able to return to most activities immediately after treatment. However, you will need to take special care of the treatment area, which may require adjusting lifestyle habits such as bathing and exercise.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect After Rare Skin Cancer Treatment?
The goal of skin cancer treatment is to eliminate skin cancer from the affected area. The success rate of this treatment will depend on your initial condition, but when treatment is started early, it is typically quite high. For some patients, multiple treatments may be necessary. During your consultation, we will discuss all of these factors so you know what to expect going into treatment.
To learn more about your treatment options for rare skin cancers, contact us today to schedule your consultation at Goodman Dermatology. Our Skin Cancer Center serves patients from North Atlanta, including those in Johns Creek, Canton and Jasper, Georgia.