Skin cancer is a condition where the normal growth of skin cells deviates from its course, resulting in the development of tumours. Our skin consists of two layers: the outer layer, the epidermis and the deeper layer, the dermis. Typically, abnormalities start in the epidermis, where skin cells constantly renew.
Despite causing concern, a variety of treatment options can effectively manage skin cancer. It is crucial to understand these treatments for individuals dealing with this diagnosis. So, Let us explore approaches to treating skin cancer, ensuring you are well-informed about your options.
Treatment of Skin Cancer
Here is an overview of some skin cancer treatment options:
- Freezing (Cryosurgery)
- Procedure: Application of liquid nitrogen on actinic keratoses (precancerous lesions) and small early-stage skin cancers.
- How It Works: The freezing temperature freezes and eliminates abnormal cells, causing them to peel away gradually.
- Considerations: Suitable for superficial lesions and often employed for precancerous conditions.
- Excisional Surgery
- Procedure: Surgical removal of the cancerous growth along with a margin of healthy tissue.
- How it Works: Surgeons use a scalpel to remove the tumour, minimising the chances of leaving any cancerous cells behind.
- Considerations: This method is effective in removing tumours that are localised. It helps determine the extent of cancer spread.
- Mohs Surgery
- Procedure: In Mohs surgery, surgeons remove layers of skin and examine them under a microscope until they reach cancer-free tissue.
- How it Works: This technique removes cells while preserving healthy tissue. Doctors commonly use it to treat skin cancer on the face.
- Considerations: Mohs surgery is appropriate for tumours with unclear borders or when addressing cosmetically sensitive areas.
- Curettage and Electrodesiccation or Cryotherapy
- Procedure: In this procedure, the medical professional scrapes off cancerous tissue through curettage, followed by either burning it with electrodesiccation or freezing it with cryotherapy.
- How it Works: This approach destroys abnormal cells and stimulates healing.
- Considerations: Medical practitioners often use curettage, electrodesiccation or cryotherapy to treat superficial and small lesions.
- Radiation Therapy
- Procedure: Radiation therapy involves directing high doses of radiation at the targeted area to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours.
- How it Works: By damaging the DNA of cancer cells, radiation therapy prevents their ability to grow and divide.
- Considerations: When surgery may not be feasible or for tumours that are large or difficult to reach, medical professionals use radiation therapy as a treatment option.
- Chemotherapy
- Procedure: Drugs, applied topically or through the bloodstream, are given to target and slow down the growth of cancer cells.
- How It Works: It focuses on dividing cells, including cancer cells. It may also impact normal cells during the procedure.
- Considerations: Medical professionals use this treatment for advanced skin cancers or when cancer has spread to areas.
- Photodynamic Therapy
- Procedure: A light-activated medication is applied to the skin, followed by light exposure.
- How It Works: The medication becomes active when exposed to light, effectively eliminating abnormal cells.
- Considerations: This therapy effectively treats precancerous lesions and superficial skin cancers.
- Biological Therapy
- Procedure: Healthcare providers use medications to stimulate the immune system’s response in targeting and destroying cancer cells.
- How It Works: It enhances the body’s defences against cancer.
- Considerations: This approach may suit certain types of advanced skin cancers.
Conclusion
While diagnosis of skin cancer can be overwhelming, it is crucial to adopt preventive measures. Simple habits, like applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and minimising excessive sun exposure, can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Moreover, having health insurance can provide a safety net for covering any expenses associated with skin cancer. Stay well informed, stay protected and let your skin radiate with good health!