By Dr. Wendy
Myers
Since October
is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the doctors at Windsor Dermatology want to emphasize
the vital importance of skin and breast exams.
Many patients
are unaware that breast cancer can be present on the skin in a condition called
Paget’s disease. With this
condition, abnormal cells are commonly found on the nipple and around the
areola of women and, at times, men. Patients will often experience symptoms
such as itching and burning, and an eczema-like condition around the nipple,
according to the National Cancer Institute.
There also
may be oozing or bleeding from the nipple, as well as flaking, crusty or
thickened skin on or around the nipple. Often times, these symptoms can be
misdiagnosed as eczema, so it’s important to see your dermatologist if you notice
anything that seems suspicious on this area of the skin. This disease is often
indicative of underlying tumors within the breast.
Windsor
Dermatology works regularly with patients, oncologists and breast surgeons to
successfully formulate an integrated treatment program that takes into account
both immediate and long-term outcomes. Regardless of the source or cause of a
skin abnormality, patients should always seek care and follow up. Skin cancer
and breast cancer have close ties to one another according to the Skin
Cancer Foundation. In
recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now’s the perfect time to take an
even closer look at your skin.
To schedule a
skin screening with a dermatologist at Windsor Dermatology, call +1-609-443-4500
or visit Windsor Dermatology to
make an appointment.
