There are various types of skin cancer that you can develop in your body. To determine which is the most likely, you should first see your GP. If he or she suspects skin cancer, they will refer you to a dermatologist for further evaluation. If the symptoms of skin cancer are not serious, the GP may remove the area of the body that is affected. However, depending on the severity of the condition, you may need further tests such as a biopsy.
Depending on the stage of the disease, location, and other factors, your doctor may recommend treatment that involves surgery or radiation therapy. Your goal might be to completely cure your cancer, control it, or ease the symptoms associated with the disease. Before undergoing treatment, it is best to discuss with your doctor your goals and side effects. It is also important to discuss your health history and your current medications with your doctor. You should also discuss the potential risks of various treatments and how they will affect you over the long run.
In addition to genetics, your family and personal history of skin cancer may increase your risk. People with weakened immune systems may be more prone to skin cancer. This includes people with HIV or organ transplants and those taking immunosuppressive drugs. Radiation therapy can also increase your risk of developing skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma. If you have had a history of skin cancer, you should visit your doctor immediately. However, it is not necessary to undergo radiation therapy to develop skin cancer.
After treatment for skin cancer, you are more likely to develop it again. Melanoma is particularly susceptible to recurrence. Ninety percent of melanoma cases recur in the first three years after treatment. Continue to consult your doctor for regular check-ups. There are many risk factors related to skin cancer. A family history of the disease can increase the risk of developing it. Certain inherited conditions can weaken the skin’s ability to repair damage caused by UV radiation.
The best treatment for melanoma depends on the type of cancer, where it has spread, the type and location of the cancer. The doctors will choose the treatment that best suits your needs and preferences. Surgery for melanomas usually involves surgery to remove the cancer. There is a “margin of safety” that is a small piece of normal skin that is removed around the affected area. It is designed to remove cancer cells from surrounding tissue, thereby preventing the melanoma from regrowing in the same place.
The TNM system is used to classify the stage of skin cancer. The number of lymph nodes involved, the thickness of the tumor, and metastasis determine the overall stage. Early stage melanomas are classified as melanoma in situ and progress to stage one through four. Then there is noninvasive and invasive melanoma. For each stage, your healthcare provider will explain which stage of skin cancer is the most appropriate for you.
