Skin cancer represents one of the most common forms of cancer, affecting millions of people annually. Early detection and proper treatment significantly improve outcomes for patients. Here is more information on the systematic approach dermatologists use to identify and treat various types of skin cancer, from initial examination through treatment completion:
Exploring Diagnostics
A dermatologist begins skin cancer diagnosis with a comprehensive visual examination of the patient’s skin. This process involves inspecting the entire body surface, including areas typically hidden from sun exposure. The dermatologist looks for suspicious moles, lesions, or growths that exhibit characteristics of malignancy. The ABCDE criteria guide dermatologists during visual examination:
- Asymmetry in mole shape
- Border irregularities
- Color variations within a single lesion
- Diameter larger than 6 millimeters
- Evolution or changes in appearance over time
When a suspicious lesion is identified, the dermatologist performs a biopsy to obtain tissue samples for laboratory analysis. Several biopsy techniques exist, including shave biopsy, punch biopsy, and excisional biopsy. The dermatologist selects the most appropriate method based on the lesion’s size, location, and suspected type.
Following biopsy collection, a pathologist examines the tissue samples under microscopic magnification. This analysis determines whether cancer cells are present and identifies the specific type of skin cancer. The pathologist also evaluates the cancer’s depth of invasion and other characteristics that influence treatment decisions.
Identifying Treatment Options
Treatment selection depends on the cancer type, size, location, and stage of advancement. Dermatologists employ various surgical and non-surgical methods to eliminate cancer cells and prevent recurrence. Surgical excision remains the most common treatment approach. The dermatologist removes the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy surrounding skin. This method proves effective for most basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and melanomas.
Mohs surgery represents a specialized surgical technique for certain skin cancers. During this procedure, the dermatologist removes thin layers of tissue and examines each layer under a microscope immediately. This process continues until no cancer cells remain visible. Mohs surgery achieves high cure rates while preserving maximum healthy tissue.
Non-surgical treatments serve as alternatives for specific situations. Topical medications containing imiquimod or fluorouracil can treat certain superficial skin cancers. Cryotherapy involves freezing cancer cells with liquid nitrogen, causing them to die and slough off. Photodynamic therapy uses light-activated medications to destroy cancer cells.
Understanding Staging and Treatment
Advanced skin cancers require additional evaluation to determine the extent of disease spread. Dermatologists may order imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to assess lymph node involvement and distant metastasis.
For melanoma cases, dermatologists often perform a sentinel lymph node biopsy to determine if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. This procedure helps stage the cancer and guides treatment decisions.
When skin cancer has spread beyond the primary site, dermatologists collaborate with oncologists to develop comprehensive treatment plans. These may include systemic therapies such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or chemotherapy. Recent advances in immunotherapy have shown promising results for advanced melanoma treatment.
Find a Dermatologist
Dermatologists employ a systematic approach to skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, utilizing both traditional and advanced techniques. Early detection through regular skin examinations and prompt treatment of suspicious lesions leads to better patient outcomes. Understanding these diagnostic and treatment processes helps patients make informed decisions about their skin health care and emphasizes the value of professional dermatological evaluation for any concerning skin changes.
