Over one million Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every year, making it the most common type of human cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer, known as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. The type of skin cancer treatment in San Antonio recommended by a dermatologist will depend on which of these cancers a patient has and how far it has progressed. Read on to find out about some common treatment options.
Superficial Radiotherapy
This non-surgical treatment uses radiation to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma right in the physician’s office. Since the radiation only goes skin deep, the treatment is painless and there’s no need for anesthesia. Treatments must be performed twice per week for six to eight weeks.
Surgical Excision
This minor surgical procedure involves removing the tumor and a margin of healthy skin around it to prevent it from spreading. After the tumor has been removed, the doctor will check to see if the normal-looking skin is free of cancer cells. If they detect any remaining cancer cells, they will perform a second procedure to remove more skin around the margin.
Surgical excision can be used to treat all three categories of skin cancer. Since it requires only local anesthetic, it can be performed right in a dermatologist’s office.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is one of the most effective forms of skin cancer treatment in San Antonio for difficult-to-treat basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas. It involves the removal of only a small margin of skin around the tumor, allowing patients to heal faster. As with ordinary surgical excisions, Mohs surgeries may need to be repeated if dermatologists see any sign of cancer cells in the normal-looking tissue removed during the initial procedure.
Curettage and Electrodesiccation
The first step in this procedure is known as curettage, and it involves scraping away the tumor itself. After the dermatologist has removed the affected tissue, he or she will use electrodesiccation to eradicate any cancer cells in the surrounding skin. The procedure is only used to treat basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.
The Bottom Line
Only a licensed dermatologist can diagnose and treat skin cancer. Patients concerned about their current symptoms or skin cancer risks can contact Limmer Dermatology to learn more about treatment options today.
