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St. Vincent's Medical Center, Bridgeport CT

Skin Cancer

Surgery at St. Vincent's Medical Center, Bridgeport CTA team approach

Our healthcare team at the St. Vincent’s Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care incorporates a multidisciplinary approach to treating melanoma and other cancers of the skin. Our multidisciplinary team of dermatologists, surgical, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists work closely with your primary care physician to coordinate your care and keep you safe.

Facts about Skin Cancer

There are approximately one million people diagnosed with new cases of skin cancer every year in the U.S. It is one of the most common form of cancer. The most common risk factor for skin cancer is the sun’s harmful UV rays. Using sunscreen with an SPF of 15-30 will help protect the skin against the sun’s rays. Individuals with fair skin are more at risk. There are three types of skin cancer:

  • Melanoma (cancer that forms in the skin cells that make the skin pigment)
  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (cancer that forms in the epidermis, or outer layer of the skin)
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (cancer that forms on the surface of the skin)

Symptoms of skin cancer - what to look for

  • Melanoma
    • A mole that has changed color, shape or size
    • A new mole with an irregular shape or color
    • A mole that bleeds
  • Basal Cell and Sqamous Cell Carcinoma
    • A lump that is shiny, smooth and pale
    • A lump that is red
    • A sore or lump that is crusty or has a scab
    • A red or brown patch that is rough and scaly
    • A flat red patch that is rough, dry and scaly

Skin cancer diagnosis and treatment at St. Vincent's

  • Physical Exam
  • Biopsy (removal of a small amount of skin tissue to be tested by a pathologist)

Our healthcare team employs a comprehensive care approach to treating patients that addresses the medical as well as the psychological needs of cancer patients and their families. From diagnosis to treatment to support and survivorship skills, our team, led by surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, dermatologists, technicians, nurses and support staff, work collaboratively to determine individualized treatment options leading to the most optimal results for the patient.

The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care

St. Vincent's Cancer Center

The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care is accredited with commendation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.  

Criteria for accreditation include a relationship with the American Cancer Society (ACS) and a representative from the ACS is a member of our Hospital Committee on Cancer.

Click in for additional information about specific cancers listed by ACS, and call the Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care's referral line: 1-877-231-SWIM (7946) for more informaton.

Contact us

To find a St. Vincent’s physician who can discuss your health concerns or those of a loved one, please click on our FIND A DOCTOR tool and search by specialty, practice, location or keyword. We’re here to help you locate the medical expert you need.

To speak with a St. Vincent's Care Line representative, call (877) 255-7847

To speak with somone at the front desk of the Medical Center, please call (203) 576-6000

Click in for St. Vincent's Medical Center DIRECTIONS | MAPS | PARKING information

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