Diagnostics and Treatment of Skin Cancer

Due to a combination of ageing and environmental influences such as sun damage and UV exposure our skin is susceptible to a number of skin tumors. The commonest type of skin cancer is basal cell carcinoma followed by squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma.

Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCCs) or rodent ulcers are the commonest of all cancers in the BCCs are usually found on sun exposed areas such as the face and neck although can occur all over the body. They are slow growing and are often present for months or years. They do spread around the rest of the body and surgical excision remains the most effective way of removing these common skin tumors. Non surgical treatments may be considered and the pros and cons of these can be discussed during the consultation

Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs) also occur most commonly in sun-exposed areas. Although they are less common than BCC’s they can be more aggressive and occasionally spread to the lymph glands.  Like BCC’s surgery remains the most effective means of removing these lesions. Occasionally non surgical therapies can be considered especially when lesions are deemed pre – malignant. The pros and cons of these can be discussed during the consultation

Malignant Melanoma is a cancer of the cells that help to tan the skin. In contrast to BCC and SCC, melanoma can affect younger patients. The main signs are of a mole that is growing, changing shape, changing color, itching and bleeding. It can spread elsewhere around the body and an early detection can lead to improved outcomes. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment (link to surgical management page)