Melanoma & Related Skin Cancers
Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. Melanoma is a cancer that is related to the pigment cells, melanocytes, normally present in the upper layer of skin. Although melanoma accounts for less than 5% of skin cancer cases, it causes most deaths associated with skin cancer. Other types of non-melanoma skin cancers are often grouped together and include basal cell and squamous cell cancers.
The Sylvester multidisciplinary melanoma program is focused on delivering compassionate and state-of-the-art patient care, and incorporates the best from dermatology, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and dermatopathology. New patient care is coordinated through our site disease nurse facilitating personalized care and appointments. To schedule a visit with one of our specialists, please call 305-243-7074.
Melanoma Surveillance and Detection Clinic
A critical part of the melanoma program, the Melanoma Surveillance and Detection Clinic allows for ongoing and long-term care of patients with melanoma. Although it's not necessary to have been treated for melanoma to be seen in this clinic, it's the best place to be if you're worried about developing skin cancer. The clinic is especially designed for the care of patients with numerous nevi, dysplastic (atypical nevi), and/ or congenital nevi as well as for those with personal or family history of melanoma. Our physicians have expertise in dermoscopy, confocal microscopy, and total body photography. Patients also have direct access to surgical and medical oncology services, as needed.
Melanoma Surveillance and Detection Clinic Faculty include:
James M. Grichnik, M.D., Ph.D., is a world leader in early melanoma detection with expertise in dermoscopy and total body photography. Dr. Grichnik's research interests focus on developing improved melanoma diagnostics and treatment options in clinical care. His laboratory research includes a special focus on the developmental biology of melanoma and tumor stem cells. Dr. Grichnik was recruited from Duke University to expand the melanoma program and develop this surveillance and detection clinic.
Shasa Hu, M.D., is an expert in early melanoma detection, dermoscopy, and confocal microscopy. Dr. Hu's research interests include the epidemiology of melanoma and disparities between populations in melanoma care as well as the potential role of vitamin D and tanning in cancer development.
Robert H. Johr, M.D., is one of the world’s experts in dermoscopy and is the author of a leading dermoscopy text book. Dr. Johr's interests include digital dermoscopy for dermoscopic follow up and pigmented skin lesions in children.
Harold S. Rabinovitz, M.D., is world-renown for his work in dermoscopy and confocal microscopy. Dr Rabinovitz practices with Margaret C. Olivero FNP-C who is well known internationally in dermoscopy and confocal microscopy. Research interests focus on identification of tumor characteristics with new research instruments and education on early tumor detection.