When it comes to skin issues, a lot of people tend to
self-diagnose. They either do not have the time or the money to invest in a
visit to the dermatologist. This can lead to major issues, especially when a
self-diagnosis is a misdiagnosis, and a seemingly minor infection is actually a
symptom of something worse.
In a recent study presented at the annual meeting of the
Canadian Dermatology Association, scientists discovered that
treatment-resistant fungal infections on the skin should be biopsied. These
infections, they learned, can mimic or coexist with malignancies that can lead
to skin cancer.
When it comes to your skin, it is extremely important to
seek the opinion of a dermatologist and undergo a proper skin biopsy. The
sooner you receive an expert diagnosis, the sooner your condition can be
treated. Early diagnosis can also help prevent future problems and the need for
intensive treatment.
While biopsies are most often performed to identify
cancerous areas, they can also help to detect other conditions that could be
harmful to an individual’s health. A skin biopsy will help a dermatologist
determine the best therapy or treatment option for a specific individual.
According to Afsaneh Alavi, MD, FRCPC, a dermatologist at
Women’s College Hospital in Toronto and one of the presenting authors of the
study, sometimes multiple biopsies are necessary for a proper diagnosis.
In addition to early diagnosis, it is also important to
recognize the signs of skin cancer. If you have any moles or lesions that are
asymmetrical, uneven or have changed in color, size or shape, you should seek
an expert opinion immediately.
If you have a fungal infection or have shown any possible
signs of skin cancer, please schedule an appointment with Greenville
Dermatology today by calling (864) 242-5872.
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