Surgical oncology plays a crucial role in the treatment of skin cancer, which arises within the skin cells. It involves the diagnosis and treatment of cancerous or precancerous disorders through surgery, such as excision and biopsy.

The signs of skin cancer may vary from one person to the next, depending on the type of skin cancer, its location, the extent of the cancer, and skin tone. The primary reason for the development of skin cancers are overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can come from the sun or tanning beds, which emit harmful UV rays.

A skin biopsy is the primary diagnostic test for skin cancer and a vital marker for determining its presence and grade. A skin sample is removed using a scalpel, razor, or punch. Once the biopsy results are concluded, further treatment may be planned appropriately.  

TYPES OF SKIN CANCER

• BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

  Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that forms in the basal cells in the lower region of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. Common signs to watch out for include scaly skin lesions, shiny lumps on the skin, and itchy or painful lumps. A mutation in the DNA due to unnecessary, continuous exposure to ultraviolet rays leads to the development of basal cell carcinoma. Treatment options for basal cell carcinoma include surgery, radiation therapy, and topical treatments. The choice of treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of the cancer.

• SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

  Squamous cell carcinoma is a cancer that impacts the squamous cells in the upper layer of the skin. It commonly forms on sun-exposed areas like the legs, arms, and head. Usually, squamous cell carcinoma manifests as a bump on the skin’s surface that may form a crust and bleed or a sore that refuses to heal. The good news is, depending on its severity, there are various effective ways to treat squamous cell carcinoma, such as cryosurgery, Mohs surgery, chemotherapy, and excision.

• MELANOMA

  Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, forms in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its unique colour and plays a crucial role in protecting it from the harmful effects of the sun. These cells are our skin's natural defence system. This cancer can develop in various parts of the body, including the legs, arms, face, back, and even the eyes. The first sign of melanoma is often a change in the appearance of a mole or an abnormal pigmented growth on the skin's surface. Treatment options for melanoma include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the severity of the condition.