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May
A guide to neoplasms and why “strange spots” should be checked out
Any time the skin cells grow abnormally, a neoplasm can form. Not all such growths are cancerous. Neoplasms can be cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). ShadeTree Dermatology is led by Dr. Vanessa Johnson, a Board-certified dermatologist with extensive research experience in skin cancer and a special interest in medical and surgical dermatology care. You can trust Dr. Johnson’s considerable skill and expertise when treating these potentially dangerous masses from our convenient and well-appointed offices in Cocoa Beach and Rockledge, Florida.
Do I have to worry about benign neoplasms?
While these growths are non-cancerous and will not spread to other tissues and parts of your body, they can still cause damage to the surrounding tissue and organs. Additionally, having a specialist like Dr. Johnson evaluate your non-cancerous neoplasm is important because they do not always stay that way. Some of these benign tumors can turn into cancerous ones. Of course, we also commonly treat lesions that are cause for concern solely due to their appearance and location; for instance, they may be located in “functionally important areas.” When located on the limbs, they can limit mobility and interfere with your quality of life, or they can place excessive pressure on the internal organs if they go untreated and become enlarged.
Are there any “red flags” that a neoplasm is cancerous?
Yes! However, the only way to know is to have it checked out by a qualified dermatologist or skin specialist. For example, precancerous growths called AKs (actinic keratoses) may look like common pink-colored or flesh-colored warts. They can also appear as thickened areas of tissue that may be scaly and crust over. Without treatment, AKs can turn into a type of cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Contact us immediately if the concerning spot is firmer than usual, inflamed, growing rapidly, and bleeds or ulcerates. After all, concerning changes are not limited to appearance. Itching and pain can also be signs of another type of skin cancer – melanoma.
Call Our Cocoa Beach Office & Rockledge Office for More Information
Reach us: (321) 200-0346
Isn’t melanoma the most serious skin cancer?
Melanoma makes up the minority of all skin cancer cases but can lead to many skin cancer-related deaths. With that being said, all suspicious growths need to be checked out. Regardless of your skin tone and skin type, you should undergo a thorough professional cancer screening at ShadeTree Dermatology on an ongoing basis. This is not a “one-and-done” service but a fundamental component of a healthy skincare routine. During these visits, ShadeTree Dermatology providers use their know-how and special tools to identify potentially abnormal areas that you may not even realize are present and that warrant further investigation. They also advise on effective ways to perform regular self-checks at home.
If you are due for a screening or are concerned about a spot, contact us at (321) 200-0346 to schedule your appointment at one of our two offices in either Cocoa Beach or Rockledge, Florida.
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Vanessa Johnson, MD, FAAD
Vanessa Johnson, MD, FAAD is the Medical Director of ShadeTree Dermatology. She is a board-certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. A Melbourne, FL native, Dr. Johnson graduated cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Neuroscience and received her medical degree from Vanderbilt School of Medicine. She completed her dermatology residency at Vanderbilt, serving as Chief Resident and receiving the House Staff Clinical Teaching Award. Her background includes research in skin disease epidemiology, cutaneous oncology, and global health, including volunteer work in India and Nicaragua.
ShadeTree Dermatology Providers
Vanessa Johnson, MD, FAAD
Bonnie Fox, PA
Elysia Dana, ARNP
Shivani Patel, PA
Jennifer North DNP, APRN
Brittany Callahan, APRN
Meet our dedicated team of board-certified providers at ShadeTree Dermatology, LLC, including Vanessa Johnson, MD, FAAD, Bonnie Fox, PA-C, Elysia Dana, APRN, Shivani Patel, PA-C, Nichole Palomba PA-C, and Brittany Callahan, APRN.
Specializing in various areas of dermatology, they are passionate about delivering a comprehensive range of services using cutting-edge technology in a comfortable and caring practice setting. Serving patients of all ages in Cocoa Beach, FL, Rockledge, FL, and nearby communities, they are committed to helping you attain and maintain the healthiest skin possible.
Cocoa Beach Office
Rockledge Office
