Skin Cancer Treatment Options

It can be a scary and overwhelming experience when you have skin cancer. Treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or photodynamic therapy, depending on the type of skin cancer you have, your age, and your health status. When you consult Dr. Martha Viera, you will learn of the different treatment options available.

These are some of the causes of skin cancer:

• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays: When exposed to UV rays from the sun, tanning beds, or other artificial sources, it can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.
• Having a weakened immune system: If you have a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS or certain medications, you may be more at risk for developing skin cancer.
• Being fair-skinned: People with fair skin, light hair, and blue eyes are more at risk for developing skin cancer.
• A family history of skin cancer: Your risk increases if a parent or sibling has the disease.

Before the doctor can determine the treatment option, a diagnosis will help identify your skin cancer type. This can be done through a biopsy, where a small skin sample is taken for testing. After diagnosis, your doctor will discuss all treatment options and help you decide the best action.

You need to remember that early detection and proper treatment are key to managing skin cancer. Your doctor can help you understand the risks and benefits of each treatment option so that you can make an informed decision. With medical advancements, more treatment options are available than ever, so it is recommended to stay up to date on what treatments are right for you.

Below find a detailed explanation of the skin cancer treatment options:

Surgery

This treatment option involves removing the cancerous cells with either a scalpel or laser. Depending on how advanced the cancer is, surgery may be done in an outpatient setting, or you may need to stay in the hospital overnight. Some types of cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells. It can be used as the primary treatment for skin cancer or combined with other treatments such as surgery and chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It is usually used for advanced cases of skin cancer or if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Chemotherapy is generally administered intravenously or orally.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy uses medications that help your immune system fight off cancer cells. This type of treatment is used for advanced cases of skin cancer and can be combined with other treatments, such as chemotherapy.

Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a special light to activate drugs targeting cancer cells. The drug is applied directly to the affected area of your skin, and then the light is used to activate the drug. This type of treatment has fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Regardless of your treatment option, it is advisable to speak with your doctor at Martha Viera Dermatology.