Skin Cancer
Overview
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the skin cells. It can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs. There are several different types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
Procedure
The overview and procedure of skin cancer treatment typically involve the following steps:
Diagnosis: The first step in treating skin cancer is to get an accurate diagnosis. This usually involves a physical exam, a biopsy to remove a small sample of the affected skin for laboratory analysis, and sometimes additional imaging tests to determine the extent of the cancer.
Treatment Planning: Once the diagnosis is confirmed, a treatment plan is developed based on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as other factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. The most common treatment options for skin cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and topical medications.
Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for skin cancer. The type of surgery used depends on the size and location of the cancer. In some cases, the cancer can be removed with a simple excision, while in other cases, more extensive surgery may be needed to remove a larger area of skin or even the entire affected limb. Mohs surgery is a specialized type of surgery that involves removing the cancer one layer at a time until all of the cancer cells have been eliminated.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to kill cancer cells that cannot be removed with surgery. This involves using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy is typically given over a period of several weeks, with treatments given once or twice per day.
Topical Medications: Certain types of skin cancer can be treated with topical medications such as imiquimod, which stimulate the immune system to attack the cancer cells. These medications are usually applied directly to the affected area and may need to be used for several weeks or months.
Follow-Up: After treatment, patients will need to undergo regular follow-up exams and imaging tests to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence. Patients may also be advised to take steps to reduce their risk of developing additional skin cancers, such as wearing protective clothing and sunscreen, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and getting regular skin exams.
Overall, the key to successful treatment of skin cancer is early detection and prompt treatment. If you are concerned about a skin lesion or have a family history of skin cancer, it’s important to schedule regular skin exams with a dermatologist and take steps to protect your skin from sun damage.