Understanding Skin Cancer Treatment Options

Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, universally, with millions of cases diagnosed each year, especially in our sunny climate in San Diego. It is also easily diagnosed and has a high cure rate if detected early. Fortunately, as medical science advances, so do the options for treating various types of skin cancer, offering better outcomes and less invasive procedures. This overview explores current skin cancer treatment options, emerging therapies, and what patients can expect during the treatment process.

 

Types of Skin Cancer

Before discussing treatment, it’s important to understand the three main types of skin cancer:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and least aggressive form.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Often found on sun-exposed areas and may spread if left untreated.
3. Melanoma: The most dangerous type, with a higher chance of spreading to other parts of the body.

Each type requires a tailored treatment approach depending on the cancer’s type, site, size, depth, and stage.

 

Skin Cancer Treatment Options

 

Surgical Treatments

Excisional Surgery:

The tumor is removed by cutting it along with a margin of healthy skin. It is most often used for both BCC and SCC, as well as superficial melanoma skin cancers.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery:

This advanced procedure removes the cancer layer by layer, examining each under a microscope the same day, until no abnormal cells remain. It’s ideal for cancers in high-risk areas like the face, hands, and shins.

Curettage and Electrodessication:

Involves scraping off the tumor friable cells using a curette and electrosurgery machines to cauterise or burn any remaining cells. Effective for superficial BCCs.

 

Topical Treatments

Certain low-risk skin cancers can be treated with prescription creams:

• Imiquimod: A topical cream that tends to stimulate the immune system to destroy cancer cells.
• 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): A chemotherapy cream that destroys precancerous and superficial cancer cells.

 

Radiation Therapy

Used for patients who cannot undergo surgery, or for cancers in hard-to-treat areas. It can be effective, but it may require multiple sessions, which come with a high cost.

 

Photodynamic and Laser-Based Therapies

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT):

It involves applying, injecting, or ingesting a photosensitizing agent that activates a reaction when the skin is exposed to a specific light wavelength, thereby destroying precancerous and cancer cells. Mostly used for actinic keratoses and superficial BCCs.

Laser Therapy:

Emerging role in treating lentigo maligna and other superficial neoplasms, often in conjunction with surgical or topical treatments.

 

Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy (for Melanoma)

When melanoma has spread or is inoperable, systemic treatments may be necessary:

• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells, such as BRAF inhibitors.
• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Examples include nivolumab and pembrolizumab (PD-1 inhibitors).

These treatments have significantly improved survival rates in advanced melanoma cases.

 

What to Expect During Treatment

• Diagnosis: Clinically or surgically by doing a skin biopsy.
• Staging: Through pathology interpretation, it determines the type and subtype of skin cancer. Also, the depth and invasive nature of the skin cancer.
• Treatment Plan: Based on cancer type, size, depth, and patient health.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular skin checks are essential to monitor for recurrence or new cancers.

 

Prevention and Early Detection

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
• Avoid tanning beds.
• Wear protective clothing.
• Regular self-directed skin exams, and consult a dermatologist for any suspicious changes.

Early detection is crucial—skin cancer caught early is almost always curable.

 

Conclusion

Skin cancer treatment has evolved dramatically, offering effective options for all stages of the disease. Whether through surgery, topical therapies, or advanced immunotherapy, most patients can achieve excellent outcomes—especially with early intervention.

If you or someone you know is facing a skin cancer diagnosis, consult a dermatologist or oncologist to explore and navigate the most appropriate treatment.

 

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