The good news is that skin cancer is often highly curable, especially when caught early. Treatment options will depend on several factors, including the type of cancer, its size, and location, the general health of the patient, and the stage of the disease. Surgical removal of nonmelanoma cancers is a common method for treating the disease. Other treatments include freezing, medicated creams, laser therapy, and powerful medicines.
While skin cancer is curable, it must be treated quickly if it spreads to the brain or bones. However, unlike other types of cancer, melanoma is not curable once it has spread. Skin cancer is caused by excessive exposure to sunlight, especially UV rays, which change the DNA of cells in the skin. Also, tanning booths emit UV rays. If you develop any of these skin cancers, it’s important to visit a dermatologist as soon as possible.
There are several types of skin cancer, but basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common and least curable. Both types of skin cancer can be treated, but melanoma is more difficult to treat than basal cell carcinoma. However, early detection is critical to a full recovery. It is important to seek treatment as early as possible, to avoid having to endure the agonizing process of fighting the disease.
Biological therapy uses substances produced by living organisms to kill the cancer cells and suppress the immune system. While radiation therapy is effective, it also can weaken the immune system and leave the patient more susceptible to infections. Targeted therapy targets the weak spots in the cancer cells. Early detection of skin cancer can also make treatment easier. For many, a minor surgical procedure may be all that is necessary. However, future lesions may still arise. That’s why it’s important to monitor your skin and seek care as soon as possible.
The five-year survival rate of melanoma depends on the stage of the disease when it’s first diagnosed. Generally, the longer the cancer takes to spread to the rest of the body, the worse it will be. The good news is that the majority of skin cancers can be successfully treated, especially if caught early. In fact, melanoma is a treatable disease if detected in its early stages. The five-year survival rate of people with stage 0 and 1 of melanoma is 98.4 percent.
The biopsy will determine the stage of the cancer and whether it has spread. Stage 0 cancers do not spread, but they may appear as crusty red patches that are hard to remove. They may also be able to spread to nearby tissues. If left untreated, this cancer can become fatal. However, it’s important to seek prompt medical care if you suspect skin cancer. A physician can help you decide which treatment is best for your condition.
Fortunately, skin cancer is treatable and 90% of cases of basal cell carcinoma are successfully treated. If caught early, basal cell cancer has a ninety-percent five-year survival rate. However, if it’s not detected in time, it can spread to lymph nodes and other organs. This is why regular follow-up with a dermatologist is necessary to make sure you’re not suffering from any side effects.
