Many people want a mole or nevus removed simply because it is unattractive. Most moles and lesions are benign ( non-cancerous). But because a mole can be a cancerous growth, it is always best to see a dermatologist like Dr. Prussick for moles that suddenly change in size, shape or color, or that bleed, itch or become painful.

Most procedures used to remove moles and skin lesions take only a short time
and can be performed in-office. A mole will not usually return once it has been
removed.

Moles and skin lesions can be removed by three methods: shave excision,
excision biopsy and laser surgery.

Shave excision is used to treat protruding moles. After the skin is numbed
with local anaesthetic, the mole above the surface of the skin is removed with a
scalpel.  Excision biopsy is necessary if the mole is flat or if melanoma is
suspected. The full depth of the mole is removed and the wound is sutured.
The coarse hair that sometimes grows in a mole can only be removed
permanently with excision of the whole mole.

Lesions and moles can also be removed with lasers.  Because lasers seal
blood vessels, sutures are not needed. This reduces scarring.

Phototherapy uses ultraviolet light treatment to treat skin conditions like
psoriasis and eczema. UVB rays are used to penetrate the skin and produce
changes which slow the growth of the cells that cause psoriasis.  We also
offer PUVA for hand, foot and scalp ultraviolet therapy.

UVB is also occasionally used for severe cases of dermatitis (eczema). The
frequency and dosage of treatment is similar to that used for psoriasis.

Other skin conditions that may be helped by phototherapy are: pruritus/
itching skin; pityriasis rosea; lichen planus; acne.


Bethesda office: call 301-657-3622;   Frederick office: call 301-694-9500