Skin Cancer
Melanoma is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer and most commonly results from overexposure to the sun. While these strange patches of skin appear small, they become dangerous when left untreated. If you notice one of the ABCDE’s in a mole, it’s time for a checkup:
- Asymmetry
- Odd or Undefined Borders
- Strange Color
- Large Diameter
- Evolving or Growing Mole
These symptoms should not be taken lightly. Regular skin exams by a professional can be life-saving. We can help you prevent, detect and treat all forms of skin cancer.
Treatment Options:
Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT)
Image-Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT) offers a non-invasive treatment approach for the most common types of non-melanoma skin cancers. IG-SRT is an FDA-approved treatment for eligible basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. As the only office in the Grand Rapids and Petoskey area to
offer IG-SRT, our team is committed to providing options to best fit you.
IG-SRT uses low-energy x-rays, like that of the levels used in dental x-rays, over the course of several treatments. These levels of x-rays are both safe and effective when used to treat superficial skin cancers. Treatments are administered by our board-certified radiation therapist, under the supervision of your dermatologist.
IG-SRT is the only skin cancer treatment with high-frequency ultrasound
imaging. This allows your doctor to visualize the cancer, precisely target the tumor, and watch it shrink over the course of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long would I be in the office for treatment?
- Treatment appointments are scheduled for about 10 minutes.
Do I have to limit what I do during treatment?
- One benefit of IG-SRT is no interruption to your everyday activities.
How many treatments would I need?
- The most typical course of treatment is 3-4 visits per week for a total of 5-7 weeks.
What is the healing time after the treatments are complete?
- IG-SRT offers a short healing time of about 3-4 weeks.
Patient Success Stories: Before IG-SRT vs. After IG-SRT
Analysis of Image‑Guided Superficial Radiotherapy (IG-SRT) on the treatment of early‑stage non‑melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in the outpatient dermatology setting. Image-guided superficial radiation therapy (IGSRT)
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery, performed by Dr. Mailler, who is double board-certified in Dermatology and Micrographic Dermatology Surgery, is one of the most effective techniques for treating common skin cancers. It's commonly used in treating basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. The procedure is done in stages and includes lab work in between to allow for the highest cure rate. The procedure helps to spare healthy tissue and leave the smallest possible scar.
Dr. Erica Mailler
Dr. Erica Mailler is double board-certified in Dermatology and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery, specializing in the treatment of skin cancer. Dr. Mailler practices by the motto "Caring for you and the skin you're in." She believes that the skin is a window into the health of the mind and body and strives to care for you and your skin by getting to know you as a whole person.
Dr. Mailler's undergraduate degree in Bioethics is from the University of Virginia. She earned her medical degree at Wright State University School of Medicine in Dayton, where she graduated Alpha Omega Alpha (national medical honor society). Dr. Mailler then completed a dermatology residency and a prestigious Mohs fellowship at the University of Cincinnati.
Dr. Mailler has been published in many peer-reviewed journals including Dermatologic Surgery, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, and Archives of Dermatology.
Dr. Mailler is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and American College of Mohs Micrographic Surgery. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a member of the Women's Dermatologic Society and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.