Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent types of cancer globally, primarily due to increased sun exposure and tanning bed use. When diagnosed with skin cancer, various treatment options are available, depending on the type, stage, and individual patient factors. This article explores the most common skin cancer treatment options, ranging from surgical interventions to cutting-edge immunotherapy.

Surgery

Surgery is often the first line of defense against skin cancer. The goal is to remove the tumor entirely along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure that no cancerous cells remain. Various surgical techniques are utilized, including:

• Mohs Micrographic Surgery: This technique is particularly effective for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. The surgeon removes cancerous skin layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no cancerous cells are detected.
• Excisional Surgery: In this procedure, the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue are removed in one go. It is suitable for larger tumors or those that are deeper in the skin.
• Curettage and Electrodessication: This method involves scraping the cancerous tissue with a curette followed by the application of electrical currents to destroy any remaining cancer cells. It’s often used for superficial skin cancers.

Radiation Therapy

For patients who cannot undergo surgery due to health concerns or for non-melanoma skin cancers located in difficult areas, radiation therapy may be employed. This treatment uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It can also be a good option for patients who have had skin cancer in the past and want to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Topical Chemotherapy

Topical chemotherapy involves applying medication directly to the skin cancer lesions. This treatment is generally used for superficial basal cell carcinoma or actinic keratosis. Common drugs include 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and imiquimod, which work by destroying cancer cells or stimulating the immune response.

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)

PDT is a newer skin cancer treatment that uses a photosensitizing agent along with a light source to kill cancer cells. When the agent is exposed to light, it produces a type of oxygen that destroys the cancerous cells. This treatment is usually reserved for superficial skin cancers and offers a less invasive option.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy represents an exciting advancement in skin cancer treatment, particularly for advanced melanoma. This approach works by stimulating the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells. Key immunotherapy options include:

• Checkpoint Inhibitors: Drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo) block proteins that inhibit the immune system, allowing T-cells to attack cancer more effectively.
• Cytokine Therapy: The use of interferons or interleukins to enhance the immune response against cancer.
• Targeted Immunotherapies: These therapies specifically target genetic mutations found in melanoma cells, such as BRAF inhibitors.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy is a cutting-edge treatment aimed at specific genes or proteins that contribute to cancer growth. Patients with advanced melanoma may benefit from targeted therapies, like BRAF and MEK inhibitors, which are designed for those with specific mutations.

Conclusion

Choosing a skin cancer treatment should be a collaborative process between the patient and healthcare provider. Factors such as the type and stage of skin cancer, overall health, and personal preferences play crucial roles in determining the most suitable approach. With advancements in medical science, patients have more options than ever before to consider for effectively managing and treating skin cancer.