Skin cancer arises from the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells in the skin, the body's largest organ. The initiation of skin cancer occurs in the epidermis (outer layer of the skin) and involves three types of cells:
The three main types of skin cancer are Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma. BCC and SCC originate in the skin's basal and squamous layers. Melanoma, which is less common but more dangerous, starts in the melanocytes and is notorious for its ability to spread rapidly to other parts of the body and vital organs, significantly increasing the risk of mortality.
Precancerous conditions such as Actinic Keratosis and Bowen’s Disease may also progress to skin cancer if left untreated, which emphasises the importance of early detection and management.
At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, we offer a comprehensive and holistic treatment plan dedicated to prevention, early diagnosis, and looking at skin cancer.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, often manifesting as a smooth, painless, slow-growing lump on the skin. This can appear shiny with fine blood vessels running across it or as a red, dry patch that stubbornly refuses to heal. BCCs grow slowly and remain localised, affecting only the skin without spreading to lymph nodes or distant organs.
The leading cause of BCC is prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which damages the skin's basal cells. To accurately diagnose BCC, we perform a skin biopsy to analyse the subtype and depth of the carcinoma, ensuring we tailor our treatment plan to your specific needs.
At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, we offer a spectrum of advanced treatment options for BCC, catering to the diverse needs and stages of the condition:
At Lumine Dermatology & Laser Clinic, we specialise in detecting and treating skin cancers including Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), a type of skin cancer that can present itself in various forms. Often appearing as firm, red nodules or flat lesions with a scaly crust, SCC may also emerge from non-healing ulcers. These lesions predominantly occur on areas of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun, including the face, ears, neck, lips, and the backs of the hands.
Although SCC is more aggressive than BCC but less so than melanoma, it can spread to lymph nodes and, in rare instances, to distant organs if not addressed promptly. The primary cause of SCC is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, leading to significant sun damage.
Other contributing factors of SCC include chronic skin inflammation, physical trauma or injury, and exposure to certain chemicals, which may provoke the abnormal growth and mutation of skin cells.
To diagnose SCC, we will conduct a thorough physical examination, including an assessment of lymph nodes, followed by a skin biopsy. This procedure involves removing a small skin sample for microscopic analysis to confirm the presence of cancerous cells and to stage the SCC.
Suitable treatment options for SCC include:
Your health and well-being are our primary concern. Together, we work towards treating, educating, and preventing skin cancer, ensuring you the best possible care and outcomes.
Melanoma can manifest as a new, unusual-looking growth or change in an existing mole. Key characteristics to watch out for include asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven colour, and a diameter larger than 6 mm.
Recognising these signs early can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Melanoma is notorious for its ability to spread quickly to other parts of the body, including lymph nodes and organs. This rapid progression can lead to serious health implications, making timely treatment crucial.
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing melanoma, including prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, a history of blistering sunburns in childhood, fair skin, a high count of atypical moles, a family history of melanoma, advanced age, and having a weakened immune system or certain genetic conditions.
Treatment strategies for melanoma vary based on its stage. Options range from:
For anyone concerned about skin changes or at risk for melanoma, securing regular skin evaluations and follow-up care with a dermatologist is essential for early detection and effective management.
Actinic keratoses (AK), also known as solar keratoses, are precancerous skin lesions that manifest as dry, rough, and scaly patches, often better felt than seen.
It is important to recognise that visible AK lesions might only be the "tip of the iceberg." Often, these are surrounded by less obvious, subclinical lesions indicative of field cancerisation, highlighting an area of skin damage rather than isolated spots. With an annual progression rate to SCC ranging from 0.025% to 20%, the risk escalates with thicker lesions and a higher count of AKs.
Risk factors for developing it include fair skin, advanced age with waning immunity, and increased cumulative sun exposure over a lifetime, all of which contribute to increased susceptibility to the damaging effects of UV radiation.
Our treatment approach for AK is highly personalised, considering the lesions' number, size, and location. Available treatments for AK include:
Preventive measures include minimising sun exposure, wearing sun-protective clothing, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Regular skin checks by a dermatologist are recommended to monitor for any changes in Actinic keratoses (A the skin that might require intervention.
Like actinic keratosis, Bowen's Disease is a precancerous skin condition that can transform into SCC if left untreated. It manifests as a single, painless patch that is red and scaly and slowly expands over time. While it may resemble common skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it’s crucial to recognise its potential to progress into a more severe form of skin cancer if not properly addressed.
Bowen’s Disease primarily arises from prolonged exposure to sunlight. It can also occur in individuals with compromised immune systems, those who have received radiotherapy, or those who have had prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals such as arsenic or engineering oils. Individuals with these risk factors should be particularly vigilant about their skin health.
Diagnosis is confirmed through a skin biopsy, where a small skin sample is analysed under a microscope. This step is essential for accurate diagnosis and determining the most effective treatment strategy. Our goal in treating Bowen’s Disease is to eliminate the precancerous cells while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.
We offer a variety of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs, including:
If you have concerns about any changes in your skin or risk factors for Bowen’s Disease, please contact us. Our team is here to support you in your journey to healthy skin.
Skin cancer originates from the abnormal growth of skin cells. Various factors contribute to this abnormality, with certain risk factors increasing susceptibility:
Skin cancer is typically diagnosed by a dermatologist, a doctor specialising in skin conditions. In cases where skin cancer is confirmed, especially for melanoma, the dermatologist may collaborate with an oncologist to formulate a treatment strategy. The diagnostic process can vary based on the individual's symptoms and condition severity, but it generally includes:
What are the early signs of skin cancer?
Early signs of skin cancer include new growths or moles on the skin, changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing moles, and skin lesions that feel sore, itch, bleed, or do not heal. Monitoring these changes is crucial for early detection and treatment.
Can skin cancer be prevented?
While skin cancer cannot always be prevented, you can minimise your risk of developing it by avoiding exposure to UV radiation, wearing protective clothing, using sunscreen with an adequate SPF, avoiding tanning beds, and regularly checking the skin for any changes or new growths. For those with signs of photodamage or a history of multiple skin cancers, certain supplements can be prescribed to slow down these skin changes.
How often should I check my skin for signs of skin cancer?
It is recommended to perform a self-examination of your skin once a month to look for new growths or changes in existing moles. Additionally, annual skin checks by a dermatologist are advisable, especially for those with the following risk factors:
