Skin Cancer Treatment
Focused melanoma care for optimal outcomes. Our tailored treatment strategies for melanoma range from surgical excisions to advanced therapies
Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, caused by unrepaired DNA damage that triggers mutations. These mutations lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors. It’s primarily caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, which can damage skin cells’ genetic material.
There are several types of skin cancer, with melanoma being the most serious. Melanoma originates in the melanocytes, the cells that produce the pigment melanin, which colors our skin, hair, and eyes. While it accounts for only a small percentage of skin cancer cases, melanoma is responsible for the vast majority of skin cancer deaths because of its ability to spread to other organs more rapidly if not treated at an early stage.
Common Symptoms of Melanoma
Melanoma is notorious for its ability to develop from an existing mole or appear as a new dark spot on the skin. Early detection is vital, as melanoma can be treatable when caught early. Here are the common symptoms to look out for:
Asymmetry: Unlike common moles, melanomas tend to have an irregular shape where one half doesn’t match the other.
Border: The edges of a melanoma are typically uneven, scalloped, or notched, rather than smooth and even.
Color: The color in a melanoma is often uneven, with shades of black, brown, and tan, and it may also have patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
Diameter: Melanomas usually grow larger than 6mm in diameter, which is about the size of a pencil eraser, but they may sometimes be smaller when first detected.
Evolving: Any change in size, shape, color, elevation, or another trait, or any new symptom such as bleeding, itching, or crusting, points to danger.
Additional Signs:
- The appearance of a new dark spot on the skin that doesn’t look like others on your body.
- Pain, tenderness, or itching in a mole.
- Changes in texture or scales, oozing, or bleeding from an existing mole.
It’s important to note that melanoma doesn’t always begin as a mole. It can also occur on otherwise normal-appearing skin. Therefore, understanding these symptoms and performing regular skin self-examinations can help you detect potential melanomas early. If you notice any of these symptoms or other suspicious changes in your skin, it is crucial to see a doctor, preferably a dermatologist, as soon as possible for evaluation and potential excisional biopsy.
Remember, early detection of melanoma can significantly increase the chance of successful treatment, often starting in a GP surgery setting before possibly advancing to specialized care if needed.
What to Expect in our Clinic
At our clinic, we understand that a diagnosis or suspicion of melanoma can be a source of concern. That’s why we are committed to providing compassionate care and clear communication throughout your journey with us. Here’s what you can expect when you come in for a melanoma treatment:
Consultation: Your visit will begin with a thorough consultation. Our skilled practitioners will review your medical history, examine any concerning areas of your skin, and discuss your symptoms and any changes you’ve observed.
Skin Examination: We perform a detailed skin examination using tools like dermatoscopes, which provide a magnified view of moles and other skin lesions. This non-invasive procedure allows us to assess the morphology of moles and spots in greater detail.
Biopsy Procedure: If a lesion is suspected to be melanoma, we may perform a biopsy. This is a simple procedure where a small piece of the skin lesion is removed under local anesthesia and sent to a laboratory for analysis. We aim to make this process as painless and stress-free as possible.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Should a diagnosis of melanoma be confirmed, we will develop a personalized treatment plan. This may include surgical removal of the melanoma, which can often be done in our clinic under local anesthesia. For more advanced cases, we will coordinate care with specialized oncologists.
Post-Procedure Care: Post-procedure care is crucial. We provide comprehensive instructions on how to care for the biopsy or surgical site to ensure proper healing. Our team is also available for any questions you may have during the recovery process.
At our clinic, you can expect a supportive, professional, and caring environment. Our team is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care with the utmost respect for your comfort and well-being.
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