Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, and it occurs when skin cells grow uncontrollably. It typically develops on skin exposed to the sun but can also occur in areas not exposed to sunlight. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. Melanoma is the most aggressive form and can spread to other parts of the body if not treated early. At Burjeel Cancer Institute, we provide comprehensive care for all types of skin cancer, offering treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, and advanced immunotherapy for more aggressive cancers.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
- A new growth or sore that doesn’t heal.
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of a mole or skin lesion.
- A mole that bleeds, itches, or is painful.
- Red or scaly patches on the skin.
- A pearly or waxy bump (typically basal cell carcinoma)
- A firm, red nodule (usually squamous cell carcinoma)
- Dark or black lesions (associated with melanoma).
Risk Factors for skin cancer include
Excessive Sun Exposure
UV radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin cancer. Frequent sunburns, particularly during childhood, increase the risk.
Tanning Beds
The use of tanning beds, which emit harmful UV rays, significantly increases the risk of developing skin cancer.
Fair Skin
Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes have less melanin, which provides protection from UV radiation.
Family History
A family history of melanoma or other skin cancers increases the risk.
Weakened Immune System
People with weakened immune systems, such as those who have had organ transplants, are at higher risk of skin cancer.
Age
The risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, though it can affect people of all ages.
Exposure to Certain Chemicals
Prolonged exposure to chemicals like arsenic can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Diagnostic Procedures
Early detection of skin cancer is key to successful treatment. At Burjeel Cancer Institute, we offer various diagnostic tools, including
Skin Examination
A thorough examination of the skin by a dermatologist to identify any abnormal moles, lesions, or changes in the skin.
Dermatoscopy
A specialized instrument (dermatoscope) is used to closely examine suspicious moles or lesions.
Biopsy
A small sample of skin is removed from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
In cases of melanoma, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to determine if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
CT Scan or MRI
Advanced imaging techniques may be used for more aggressive skin cancers, such as melanoma, to check if cancer has spread to other organs.
Treatment Options
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs like vemurafenib and dabrafenib target specific genetic mutations (such as BRAF mutations) in melanoma cells, helping to stop or slow the growth of the cancer.
- Immunotherapy: Drugs such as pembrolizumab and nivolumab help the immune system recognize and destroy melanoma cells. Immunotherapy is particularly effective in advanced melanoma or when melanoma has spread to other parts of the body.
Chemotherapy
- Topical Chemotherapy: Creams containing cancer-killing drugs (such as 5-fluorouracil) may be applied directly to the skin for early-stage basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas.
- Systemic Chemotherapy: In cases where skin cancer has spread to other parts of the body, systemic chemotherapy may be used to target and kill cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
- External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): High-energy radiation is directed at the tumor to destroy cancer cells, often used for cancers that cannot be completely removed by surgery or for patients who are not candidates for surgery.
Surgical Treatment
- Excisional Surgery: The most common treatment for skin cancer involves surgically removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue.
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery: This highly precise technique removes skin cancer layer by layer while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible. It is especially useful for treating basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas in sensitive areas like the face.
- Curettage and Electrodessication: This involves scraping away the cancer cells and then using an electric needle to destroy any remaining cancerous tissue, commonly used for small, non-aggressive skin cancers.
Multidisciplinary Approach
Skin cancer treatment at Burjeel Cancer Institute involves a team of specialists who work together to develop individualized treatment plans. Our team includes.
- Dermatologists.
- Medical Oncologists.
- Surgical Oncologists.
- Radiation Oncologists.
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.
- Pathologists.
- Oncology Nurses.
- Genetic Counselors.
- Palliative Care Specialists.
This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care from diagnosis to recovery.
Supportive Care and Patient Services
We offer a variety of supportive care services to help skin cancer patients manage their treatment and improve their quality of life.
Reconstructive Surgery
After removing skin cancer, reconstructive surgery may be performed to restore function and appearance, especially for cancers on the face or other visible areas.
Nutritional Counseling
Tailored dietary advice to help patients maintain strength and manage treatment side effects.
Psychosocial Support
Counseling services for patients and their families to cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of a skin cancer diagnosis.
Palliative Care
Symptom management and quality-of-life support for patients with advanced or metastatic skin cancer.
Physical Rehabilitation
Programs to help patients recover mobility and strength after surgery or treatment.
Survivorship Program
Ongoing care and monitoring for patients who have completed treatment, focusing on long-term health and recurrence prevention.
Meet Our Experts
Our skin cancer care team includes specialists in
Patient Journey
We guide skin cancer patients through every step of their treatment journey, ensuring personalized care and support.
Initial Consultation
A comprehensive evaluation with the skin cancer care team, including a full skin examination and any necessary diagnostic tests.
Personalized Treatment Plan
A customized treatment plan is developed based on the type, stage, and location of the skin cancer.
Treatment and Support
Patients receive surgery, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy, supported by a multidisciplinary team and personalized supportive care services.
Follow-Up Care
After treatment, patients receive regular follow-ups to monitor for recurrence and manage long-term health concerns.
