Skin Cancer Management

What it targets?

Skin cancer results from abnormal skin cell growth due to prolonged UV radiation exposure from the sun or tanning beds. It includes various types, each with unique subtypes and treatment methods:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Subtypes of BCC include nodular, superficial, morpheaform, and pigmented. BCCs are graded by depth and invasiveness, with treatment options ranging from surgical excision and Mohs surgery to topical therapies for superficial lesions.

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

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

Who is it for?

Skin cancer can affect anyone, but the risk increases with age. Several factors heighten the risk, including:

• Pale or freckled skin, especially if it burns easily

• Red or fair hair and light-colored eyes

• Unprotected UV exposure, especially from sunburns or intense sun exposure

• Tanning bed use or excessive sunbathing

• Outdoor work or time spent outside (e.g., gardening, golfing)

• Arsenic exposure

• Weakened immune system (e.g., leukemia, lymphoma, immunosuppressive medications)

• Numerous or irregular moles

• Personal or family history of skin cancer

• Skin conditions like sunspots

• Smoking

While people with darker skin have more protection, they can still develop skin cancer.

Early detection is vital for effective treatment. Regular skin checks and quick medical attention for suspicious changes are crucial, especially in Australia, where high UV exposure increases skin cancer rates. Routine screenings help detect skin cancer early and improve outcomes, reducing mortality rates.