Skin Cancer Management

What it targets?

Skin cancer arises from the abnormal growth of skin cells due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It encompasses various types, each characterized by distinct subtypes and treatment approaches:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Subtypes – Nodular, superficial, morpheaform, and pigmented BCC.
Grading and Treatment – BCCs are graded based on depth and invasiveness. Treatment options include surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or topical therapies for superficial lesions.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Subtypes – Keratoacanthoma, Bowen’s disease, and invasive SCC.
Grading and Treatment – SCCs are graded by differentiation (well, moderately, poorly). Treatments include surgical excision, Mohs surgery, radiation, or topical therapies for in situ cases.

Melanoma
Subtypes – Superficial spreading melanoma, nodular melanoma, lentigo maligna melanoma, and acral lentiginous melanoma.
Grading and Treatment – Melanomas are graded by Breslow thickness and Clark level. Treatment involves wide local excision, sentinel lymph node biopsy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy for advanced stages.

Who is it for?

Skin cancer can affect individuals of any age, but the risk increases with age.

Several factors can heighten your risk, including:

• Pale or freckled skin, especially if it burns easily and does not tan.
• Red or fair hair and light-colored eyes (blue or green).
• Unprotected UV exposure, particularly from short, intense sun exposure and sunburns during weekends or holidays.
• Use of tanning beds or excessive sunbathing.
• Outdoor work or extensive time spent outside (e.g., gardening or golfing).
• Arsenic exposure.
• A weakened immune system due to conditions like leukemia or lymphoma, or from immunosuppressive medications.
• Numerous moles, especially those that are irregular in shape or color.
• A history of skin cancer or a family history of skin cancer.
• Certain skin conditions, such as sunspots, indicating significant sun damage.
• Smoking, which has been linked to a possible increased risk of skin cancer.

While individuals with brown, black, olive, or very dark skin generally have more protection against UV radiation due to higher melanin levels, they can still develop skin cancer.

Early detection of skin cancer is crucial for successful treatment and preventing metastasis. Regular skin checks and prompt medical attention for suspicious changes are vital, especially in Australia, where high UV exposure contributes to elevated skin cancer rates. Studies underscore the benefits of routine screenings, demonstrating they detect skin cancer earlier and improve treatment outcomes. The Cancer Council of Australia emphasizes that regular screenings reduce mortality rates associated with skin cancer.