Skin cancer treatment

Skin cancer treatment is possible only after diagnosis, which is done through biopsy or physical examination. A biopsy is done to diagnose skin cancer wherein a part of the skin is sent to the laboratory for testing.

A surgeon or a dermatologist usually refers to its report and then considers several options for its treatment. When choosing skin cancer treatment options, the doctor considers the general health and age of the patient. Also, the treatment type will depend upon whether the skin cancer has spread to other parts of the body. The types of treatment include skin cancer surgery, chemotherapy, scraping, freezing and radiotherapy.

A team of doctors works together to conduct skin cancer surgery. The team includes dermatologists, surgeons and radiation oncologists. Other health professionals may see you as well, depending upon the type of treatment required.

Skin cancer is suspected when there is a change in colour of the skin, signs of spots, colour change of spots or in its shape and size or the development of newer types of spots.

The chemotherapy treatment used for nonmelanoma skin cancer is administered through a cream or a lotion. The dosage of chemotherapy used depends upon the condition of the patient. Sometimes retinoids are administered for skin cancer treatment.