Skin cancer occurs when skin cells undergo abnormal changes and multiply uncontrollably, most often developing in areas of the body that receive regular sun exposure. It is very common worldwide, affecting millions of individuals across various demographics each year. The three primary types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, each with varying levels of severity. Here’s information on skin cancer treatment and what to expect:
Getting an Exam
During a professional clinical evaluation, a dermatologist conducts a thorough physical assessment of your skin. They will examine your body from head to toe, looking for unusual moles, new growths, or noticeable changes in existing skin lesions. Providers often look for specific indicators of concern, such as:
- Asymmetry
- Irregular Borders
- Inconsistent Color
- Large Diameter
- Changes in a Mole’s Appearance
From here, the dermatologist can recommend tests to confirm a diagnosis and begin developing a cancer treatment plan with a radiologist. The three main forms of skin cancer present in different ways. Basal and squamous cell carcinomas begin in the outer layers of the skin and represent the most frequently diagnosed variations. Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. While melanoma is less common, it requires careful monitoring due to its potential to spread to other areas of the body.
Getting a Skin Cancer Diagnosis
If a provider identifies a suspicious area during your exam, the standard next step is a skin biopsy, which may be done the same day. During this brief outpatient procedure, a doctor removes a small sample of the affected tissue for detailed laboratory testing. A specialized pathologist then examines the cells under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer.
A biopsy provides key information, and it allows your healthcare team to develop a care plan for the cancer type. Depending on the laboratory results, your provider will discuss the specific type and stage of the condition. Staging determines the extent of the condition, clarifying whether it is localized to the skin or has moved to nearby lymph nodes or other tissues.
Exploring Your Treatment Options
Care plans vary based on your type, size, depth, and specific location of cancer cells. While surgical removal is a common approach for many cases, advanced radiation therapies provide precise alternatives for many situations. These techniques focus on the affected area while also preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy uses computer-controlled beams of radiation to deliver precise doses to targeted areas, reducing exposure to healthy tissues. These technologies allow radiation oncologists to adjust the exact intensity of the radiation beams. Image-guided radiotherapy uses external beam radiation technology and incorporates frequent imaging during treatment sessions for precise radiation dose delivery.
There are many specialized radiation treatments for skin cancer, including:
- Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy: This therapy involves delivering highly focused, high-dose radiation over a very short period.
- Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Despite the terminology, radiosurgery involves no actual physical incisions. Instead, it relies on advanced three-dimensional imaging to precisely target the affected cells.
- Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy: This therapy uses computer software and CT scans to create a detailed, three-dimensional model of the treatment area. The radiation beams then conform precisely to the exact shape of this model.
Healthcare providers use these non-surgical techniques when specialized targeting is necessary for managing localized areas without traditional surgical intervention.
Get Timely Skin Cancer Treatment
Addressing abnormal skin changes early often leads to timely treatments and better health outcomes. Skin cancer requires medical evaluation and guidance, so scheduling regular screenings is a proactive step for your health. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional to discuss your specific needs and establish an appropriate, individualized care timeline. To learn more about radiology cancer treatment options, contact a radiology clinic for personalized information.
