What Are Some Treatments for Skin Cancer Book Appointment

What Are Some Treatments for Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a major public health concern worldwide. Due to the increase in exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from both the sun and artificial sources like tanning beds, the incidence of skin cancer has been steadily rising. Skin cancer affects individuals of all ages and can appear in a variety of forms. However, with early detection and appropriate treatment, the majority of skin cancers are treatable. For those in Ipswich or surrounding areas, a Skin Cancer Clinic Ipswich can be a valuable resource for timely diagnosis and treatment options.

In this blog, we will explore the different types of skin cancer, available treatments, and prevention strategies. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your health and treatment options.

Understanding Skin Cancer:

Close up woman applying cream on mole

Skin cancer occurs when abnormal skin cells begin to grow uncontrollably. These cells form tumors that can either remain localized or spread to other areas of the body. Skin cancer is generally categorized into three main types:

❖ Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common and least aggressive form of skin cancer. BCC usually appears as a small, shiny bump or a red, scaly patch on the skin. It tends to grow slowly and rarely metastasizes (spreads) to other parts of the body.

❖ Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This is the second most common form of skin cancer. SCC often appears as a red, firm nodule or a scaly, crusted lesion on the skin. It is more likely than BCC to spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly.

❖ Melanoma: Although less common, melanoma is the most aggressive and dangerous form of skin cancer. It can develop from existing moles or appear as new, irregular growths with asymmetrical shapes, uneven borders, and multiple colors. Melanoma is more likely to spread to internal organs, which makes early detection and treatment critical.

Each type of skin cancer has different characteristics, so treatment strategies vary depending on the diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer:

Several treatment options are available for skin cancer, and the appropriate one depends on factors such as the type of skin cancer, its stage, its location, and the patient’s overall health. Below are the most commonly used treatments for skin cancer.

1. Surgical Removal (Excision)

Surgical excision is one of the most commonly used methods for treating skin cancer. The procedure involves cutting out the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it to ensure that all cancerous cells are removed. Excision can be used for most types of skin cancer, including BCC, SCC, and even early-stage melanoma.

❖ Local Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area to prevent any pain. Patients remain awake during the surgery, though they may feel some pressure or tugging.

❖ Wide Excision: For tumors that are deeper or larger, the surgeon may need to remove a wider area of skin. This ensures that no cancer cells are left behind, and the surrounding healthy tissue is also examined to confirm the absence of cancer.

❖ Mohs Surgery: For skin cancers located on sensitive areas, such as the face, ears, or genitals, Mohs surgery is often the preferred method. This precise technique involves removing the tumor in thin layers, examining each layer under a microscope, and continuing the process until no cancerous cells remain. The benefit of Mohs surgery is that it preserves as much healthy tissue as possible while ensuring the complete removal of the tumor.

2. Cryotherapy (Freezing)

Cryotherapy, or cryosurgery, is a minimally invasive treatment that uses extreme cold to freeze and destroy abnormal skin cells. It is typically used for superficial skin cancers such as precancerous lesions (actinic keratosis) or early-stage BCC or SCC.

❖ Procedure: The doctor applies liquid nitrogen to the affected area using a spray or cotton swab. The liquid nitrogen freezes the tissue, causing the cancerous cells to die. Over the next few days, the treated area will scab over and eventually fall off, along with the destroyed tumor.

❖ Advantages: Cryotherapy is quick, effective, and requires no stitches, making it an excellent option for small or superficial cancers. Recovery is generally fast, with minimal scarring or discomfort.

3. Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy is a non-surgical treatment option that uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often used for skin cancers that are difficult to remove surgically or in cases where surgery is not an option due to other health conditions.

Young woman on medical table moving into mri scan machine

❖ External Beam Radiation: In this treatment, the patient lies on a treatment table while a machine directs a beam of radiation to the cancerous area. External beam radiation is typically used for cancers on the face or other areas where surgery would leave significant scars.

❖ Internal Radiation (Brachytherapy): In some cases, radioactive material may be inserted directly into or near the tumor to provide localized radiation treatment. This form of radiation therapy is often used for small tumors that are not easily accessible.

❖ Benefits: Radiation therapy is effective for treating localized tumors and can be an excellent option for patients who are not candidates for surgery. However, radiation can cause skin irritation and other side effects, which need to be managed by a healthcare provider.

4. Topical Treatments:

Topical treatments involve applying medications directly to the skin to treat early-stage or superficial skin cancers. These treatments are commonly used for precancerous lesions or small BCCs or SCCs that have not spread deeply into the skin.

Skin allergy on a person's arm

❖ Imiquimod (Aldara): Imiquimod is a topical immune response modifier that works by stimulating the immune system to fight off abnormal skin cells. It is often used for treating superficial BCC and precancerous conditions.

❖ 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): 5-FU is a chemotherapy drug that inhibits the growth of abnormal cells. It is applied as a cream to the affected area, where it causes the cancerous cells to die off. 5-FU is effective for treating superficial BCC, SCC, and precancerous lesions.

❖ Advantages: Topical treatments are non-invasive, and the application process is straightforward. They can be particularly useful for patients with small, localized skin cancers.

5. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

Patient ready to get ct scan medium shot

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combines a photosensitizing agent (a special drug) with light exposure to destroy cancerous cells. The drug is applied to the skin and absorbed by cancer cells. Once the skin is exposed to a specific wavelength of light, the drug activates and kills the cancer cells.

❖ Procedure: During the treatment, the photosensitizing drug is applied to the affected area, and after a waiting period (usually 1–3 hours), the skin is exposed to a light source that activates the drug. The light triggers a chemical reaction that destroys the cancer cells.

❖ Benefits: PDT is especially effective for superficial skin cancers like BCC and actinic keratosis. It is a non-invasive option with minimal recovery time, and it can be done on an outpatient basis.

6. Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy is typically reserved for more advanced or metastatic skin cancers, such as melanoma. It uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing and dividing. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or as a topical treatment.

Doctor doing a check on a patient with skin cancer

❖ Systemic Chemotherapy: In systemic chemotherapy, drugs are administered through an IV or orally, allowing them to circulate throughout the body and target cancer cells that may have spread to other organs.

❖ Topical Chemotherapy: For localized cases of superficial skin cancer, topical chemotherapy drugs (like 5-FU) may be used to treat the tumor directly.

❖ When It’s Used: Chemotherapy is often used in conjunction with surgery or radiation for melanoma or other advanced skin cancers that have spread beyond the skin.

How to Prevent Skin Cancer?

Prevention is key when it comes to skin cancer, especially since the majority of cases are caused by excessive UV exposure. Here are several ways to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer:

1. Wear Sunscreen Regularly

Sun protection is the most important step in preventing skin cancer. Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.

2. Avoid Tanning Beds

Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer, especially melanoma. Avoid tanning beds and opt for safer alternatives, like sunless tanning lotions, to achieve a tan.

3. Wear Protective Clothing

When spending time outdoors, wear protective clothing, including hats with wide brims, sunglasses with UV protection, and long-sleeved shirts or pants with built-in UPF (ultraviolet protection factor).

4. Seek Shade

Limit your time in the sun, particularly during peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are the strongest. Seek shade whenever possible, especially in areas with little natural cover.

5. Get Regular Skin Checks

Regular skin checks by a dermatologist or at a Skin Cancer Clinic Ipswich are essential for detecting skin cancer in its early stages. Self-exams should also be conducted regularly, checking for any new or changing moles, spots, or lesions.

Conclusion:

Skin cancer treatment has come a long way in recent years, with a variety of options available to address different types and stages of cancer. Whether you’re dealing with BCC, SCC, or melanoma, it’s essential to work closely with a dermatologist or skin cancer specialist to determine the best course of action for your specific condition.

If you have concerns about your skin or suspect that you may have skin cancer, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Station Road Medical Centre, we offer expert care for skin cancer diagnosis and treatment. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing the best treatment options to ensure your skin health and well-being.

Contact Us:

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with our Skin Cancer Clinic Ipswich, contact us at (07) 3816 1473 or email us admin@srmcbooval.com.au at today:

Don’t wait for a small concern to turn into something more serious—schedule a skin check with us today!

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