Skin Cancers

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United states–more than 3.5 million cases are diagnosed annually. One of every five Americans will experience skin cancer during his or her lifetime. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation causes genetic changes in skin DNA which results in uncontrolled growth of skin cells which can form scaly lesions called actinic keratosis which eventually can transform into tumors.

Cancerous skin growths fall into three basic categories:
  • Basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are the most common and most treatable. They present as a bleeding pimple like lesion that doesn’t heal, sores, scaly plaques of reddened skin, shiny, pink bumps, or a scar without cause. BCCs are usually caused by cumulative UV exposure, so they are classically seen on scalp, face, ears, neck, shoulders, and back. A BCC can become disfiguring but is rarely life threatening and doesn’t normally spread to other body parts.
  • A squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) may appear as a red, scaly plaque, an open sore, or look like a wart. SCCs are also linked to UV exposure over a period of time. Skin injuries, autoimmune diseases, and some medications can trigger their development. Adults over the age of 50 and those who have had a BCC are more susceptible. With early detection and removal, SCCs are usually curable. However, this type of cancer results in about 2,500 deaths each year in the U.S. if allowed to metastasize to other organs.
  • Melanoma is the most formidable type of skin cancer. These malignant tumors often look like moles that are changing in size, color, or symptoms. While usually brown or black, they may be pink, red, purple, blue, white, or skin toned. Melanomas are triggered by intense UV exposure (sunburn) and likely have other environmental and genetic factors related to their development. Melanoma readily metastasizes, spreading to other organs. It kills nearly 9,000 Americans annually.
Skin Cancers ABCDEs Of Detecting malanoma The board certified dermatologists at Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology first confirm diagnosis of a suspected skin cancer with a clinical biopsy. Treatment, usually on an outpatient basis, depends on the diagnosis but treatment options include surgical excision, electrocautery, topical prescription medications or our doctors may formulate a combination approach to eradicate the cancer. Depending on the location and size of the tumor and the patient’s health, they may recommend seeing a specialist for Mohs micrographic surgery – a more precise method that spares surrounding tissues. In some cases, traditional radiation or chemotherapy is indicated, and reconstructive surgery may be necessary.

Don’t take chances with your skin or your health – schedule an annual skin cancer screening at the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology.

Scalpel-free and non-invasive testing for melanoma

Scalpel-free and non-invasive testing for melanoma
Have a mole but terrified of the scalpel and a biopsy? Dr. Lupo now offers a non-invasive way of testing for melanoma with DermTech Smart Stickers. No pain, no bleeding and scalpel-free.


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How to Prevent Skin Cancer

Dr. Mary Lupo talks about how to prevent Skin Cancer
Hello I am Dr. Mary Lupo. Did you know skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States? Over a million new cases are diagnosed every year and it can show


Dr. Mary Lupo
Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology

Hello I am Dr. Mary Lupo. Did you know skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States? Over a million new cases are diagnosed every year and it can show up 20 to 30 years after intense sun exposure. That is why regular skin exams are so important, both at home and at our office. With early detection and treatment most skin cancers are almost one hundred percent curable. So pay attention to any changes in your skin, and if you are concerned about any moles, freckles or other spots, please let us know today. Thank you!
Meet one of the countrys leading experts in the field of non-surgical skin rejuvenation.

Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Mary P. Lupo, M.D. - Connect on Linkedin

Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical and cosmetic treatments to all patients.

Board certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for approval of new drugs and devices and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.

Appointment Request:

If you submit an online appointment request, we will contact you to schedule the date and time. All new-patient appointments must be scheduled over the phone.


Success Stories

Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Review From Casey C.
I’ve been injected by several physicians over the years and Dr Lupo is the best. She gave me an eyebrow lift with filler and it looks like I had surgery.
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