About Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is a prevalent form of cancer that primarily affects the skin's outermost layer. It develops when skin cells undergo malignant transformations, often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
Among many types of skin cancer, the most common ones are:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Melanoma
Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC)
Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of skin cancer is vital for early diagnosis and successful treatment. Early detection through regular skin self-exams and professional skin checks is crucial. If you notice any concerning skin changes, consult a dermatologist promptly. Some common signs and symptoms include:
New Skin Growth
Change in an Existing Mole
Sore That Doesn't Heal
Scaly or Crusty Patches
Bleeding or Oozing
Irregular Borders
Common Treatment Options
Skin cancer treatment depends on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatment options include:
Surgery
Surgical excision is the most common method for removing basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. It involves cutting out the tumour along with a margin of healthy skin. Mohs surgery, often used for cancers on the face or those with unclear borders, involves removing thin layers of tissue and examining them under a microscope until no cancer cells remain. Lymph node dissection may be necessary if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Reconstructive surgery can be performed to improve the appearance and function of areas where extensive tissue removal occurred.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is used in cases where surgery is not an option, or when cancer cells remain after surgery. It involves targeting the tumour site with high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy is less commonly used for skin cancer than for other cancer types, but it may be employed when cancer is in hard-to-reach areas, such as around the eyes or ears. It can also be an option for individuals who are not suitable candidates for surgery due to underlying health conditions. Radiation therapy is typically delivered over several sessions, with minimal impact on healthy surrounding tissue.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy has revolutionised the treatment of advanced skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Drugs known as immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab, work by unleashing the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy has shown remarkable success in extending survival and inducing long-lasting responses in some patients with advanced melanoma. It is often used as a first-line treatment for metastatic melanoma and is also being explored in other types of skin cancer.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a specialised approach that targets specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth. In some cases of advanced melanoma, targeted drugs like BRAF inhibitors and MEK inhibitors are used to block specific genetic mutations that drive cancer growth. Targeted therapy offers a more precise treatment option with the potential for better outcomes and fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is primarily used for advanced or metastatic skin cancer, particularly for melanoma that has spread to distant organs. Systemic chemotherapy involves administering drugs intravenously or orally, allowing them to circulate throughout the body to target cancer cells wherever they may be. While chemotherapy may not be a primary treatment for early-stage skin cancer, it can be part of a combination therapy plan for advanced cases. Advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have reduced the reliance on traditional chemotherapy for skin cancer, as these newer approaches offer more precise and effective treatment with fewer side effects.
Brief about the Surgical Procedure
Surgical procedures for skin cancer aim to remove the cancerous tissue while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. The choice of surgery depends on the type and extent of the cancer. Here are some common surgical options:
Excisional Surgery
The surgeon removes the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin. This method is used for BCC and SCC.
Mohs Surgery
This technique involves the removal of thin layers of cancerous tissue one at a time, with immediate microscopic examination. It is highly effective for removing skin cancers with complex shapes or those located in critical areas like the face.
Lymph Node Dissection
In cases where skin cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, the surgeon may remove the affected nodes.
Reconstructive Surgery
After the removal of cancerous tissue, reconstructive surgery may be performed to restore the appearance and function of the treated area, especially in cosmetic or functionally important regions.
Skin cancer is highly treatable, especially when detected early. Regular skin checks, sun protection measures, and seeking prompt medical attention for any suspicious skin changes are key to preventing and effectively managing this condition.
These treatment options, tailored to the type and stage of skin cancer, provide patients with a range of effective approaches to combat this disease. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the type of skin cancer, its stage, and the patient's overall health, and is typically determined through consultation with a healthcare provider specialising in dermatology or oncology.
By providing comprehensive information about skin cancer and its treatment options, we aim to empower patients and caregivers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.