The Ultimate Guide to 8 Types of Skin Cancer Treatment
Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of your skin. It is the most common type of cancer and is mostly caused by prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. In extreme cases, skin cancer can also spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening. The good news is that skin cancer is highly treatable if detected early. Here’s an ultimate guide to the 8 types of skin cancer treatment available today:
1. Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is a type of surgery that is mainly used to treat basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. This surgery involves removing the cancer cells and examining the tissue under a microscope to ensure that all cancer cells have been removed. Mohs surgery has a high success rate and is a popular treatment option for skin cancer.
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is a type of treatment that uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. This treatment is most effective for treating non-melanoma skin cancers. Radiation therapy is often used in combination with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy to improve the chances of eradicating the cancer.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a type of treatment that involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. This treatment is often used for malignant skin cancers that cannot be treated with surgery or radiation therapy. Chemotherapy can be administered in various forms like topical creams, oral medications, and intravenous injections.
4. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a type of treatment that uses freezing temperatures to destroy cancer cells. This treatment is mainly used for precancerous lesions and early-stage skin cancers. Cryotherapy is a relatively simple and quick procedure that involves applying liquid nitrogen to the affected area.
5. Photodynamic Therapy
Photodynamic therapy is a type of treatment that involves injecting a special drug into the bloodstream to make the cancer cells more sensitive to light. After the drug has been absorbed by the cancer cells, a special light is shined onto the skin to destroy the cancer cells. This treatment is most effective for treating basal cell skin cancers.
6. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that stimulates the immune system to fight the cancer cells. This treatment is often used for advanced skin cancers that cannot be treated with other types of treatments. Immunotherapy can be administered in various forms like injections and topical creams.
7. Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a type of treatment that uses intense beams of light to destroy cancer cells. This treatment is mainly used for precancerous lesions and early-stage skin cancers. Laser therapy is a relatively painless procedure that involves using a special wand to direct the laser beams on the affected area.
8. Surgery
Surgery is a common treatment option for skin cancers that can be removed with surgery alone. This treatment involves removing the cancerous growth along with some surrounding tissue to ensure that all cancerous cells have been removed. Surgery is often used in combination with other treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy to improve the chances of eradicating the cancer.
In conclusion, skin cancer is a serious condition that needs to be treated promptly. The above-listed types of skin cancer treatment are effective options for treating different types of skin cancers. It’s important to consult with your dermatologist to discuss the best course of treatment for your specific case and to ensure that skin cancers are detected and treated early.
