Skin Cancer Clinic
Worried about skin changes or at risk for skin cancer? At Healthy Haven Family Clinic, we know how crucial early detection and prevention are in the fight against skin cancer. Dedicated GP's are here to guide you through comprehensive skin screenings, full body skin checks, personalised prevention strategies, and treatment options. Whether you’re concerned about a changing mole or want an annual skin check, we offer compassionate care and tailored solutions to help you stay ahead of potential risks, all in a comfortable and supportive environment. Your skin health matters to us — let us help you protect it.
Understanding Skin Cancer
Skin cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the skin. This disease typically begins in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, and is primarily caused by skin cell damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In Australia, skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer, affecting nearly one in three people over their lifetime. Regular skin cancer checks, including an annual full body skin cancer check, are crucial for early detection and effective treatment.
Symptoms of Skin Cancer
At Healthy Haven Family Clinic, we educate our patients on the different types of skin cancer. There are several types, each with unique characteristics and varying degrees of severity. These include:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) appears as a flat, flesh-colored or brown lesion, often in sun-exposed areas like the face or neck. It may also look like a pearly bump or a sore that heals and reopens. Early detection leads to more effective treatment.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) can appear as a firm red nodule, a flat lesion with a scaly crust, or a non-healing sore that bleeds. Early recognition is crucial, as untreated SCC can spread.
Melanoma
Melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer, can appear anywhere on the body. In women, it often shows on the lower legs, while in men, it’s more common on the face or trunk. People with darker skin may find it on the palms, soles, or under the nails.
The ABCDE criteria (Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variations, Diameter over 6mm, and Evolution) can help in early detection. Those with more than 50 moles should monitor any changes closely, even in sun-protected areas.
In addition to these, rare skin cancers such as Merkel cell carcinoma and angiosarcoma exist, though they are less commonly encountered. Given their varied appearances, vigilance in monitoring skin changes is crucial.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can damage the DNA in skin cells and lead to mutations that can develop skin cancer. These mutations cause cells to grow uncontrollably, forming cancerous masses.
Knowing the causes and risk factors of skin cancer aids in taking preventive measures to reduce its likelihood. It is recommended to have an annual full body skin check for individuals with risk factors.
UV Radiation and Genetic Predispositions
Exposure to UV radiation from the sun is the leading cause of skin cell damage, significantly increasing the risk of developing skin cancer. Aside from UV radiation, several other factors can increase the risk of skin cancer. A family history of skin cancer can heighten an individual’s susceptibility to the disease. Genetic predispositions and lighter skin tones also contribute to a higher risk, as lighter skin is more sensitive to UV exposure.
Those with weakened immune systems, including organ transplant recipients, face a higher risk of developing skin cancer.
Skin and Mole Checks
Skin and mole checks are a comprehensive evaluation of your skin health, designed to detect any suspicious moles or skin lesions. Using dermoscopy, the skin is examined to identify any potential skin cancers. We also provide guidance on skin cancer prevention and risk reduction, and offer personalised recommendations for skin health maintenance. Our skin checks are performed by experienced GP’s with additional training and experience in skin cancer medicine and dedicated to providing high-quality care.
Diagnosing Skin Cancer
Early skin cancer detection is crucial for successful treatment. GP's in our rooms use the latest diagnostic tools, such as dermoscopy and biopsy techniques, to examine suspicious moles or growths. Regular screenings can catch skin cancer before it spreads, giving you the best possible chance for a positive outcome.
Physical Examination and Biopsy
During a physical examination, a thorough skin cancer check is performed to look for skin lesions that could indicate skin cancer. If a suspicious lesion is found, we may recommend a biopsy, where a small skin sample is removed and examined under a microscope. Depending on the lesion’s characteristics, we use different biopsy techniques, such as shave or punch biopsies. Biopsies confirm the diagnosis and help us plan the appropriate treatment.
Skin Cancer Treatment Options
Detecting skin cancer early and initiating early treatment greatly enhances the success of treatment. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of skin cancers treated and can include both surgical and non-surgical methods.
- Surgical Treatments: Surgical excision is the most common treatment for basal and squamous cell carcinoma. This procedure removes the cancerous tissue along with some surrounding healthy skin. We may also use other methods, such as shave excision and curettage, depending on the specific case.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: For certain types of skin cancer, we offer non-surgical treatments such as cryotherapy, topical chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, which can be effective options for targeted treatment.
Skin Cancer Treatment Options
Detecting skin cancer early and initiating early treatment greatly enhances the success of treatment. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of skin cancers treated and can include both surgical and non-surgical methods.
- Surgical Treatments: Surgical excision is the most common treatment for basal and squamous cell carcinoma. This procedure removes the cancerous tissue along with some surrounding healthy skin. We may also use other methods, such as shave excision and curettage, depending on the specific case.
- Non-Surgical Treatments: For certain types of skin cancer, we offer non-surgical treatments such as cryotherapy, topical chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, which can be effective options for targeted treatment.
Schedule Your Skin Cancer Screening Today
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and at Healthy Haven Family Clinic, we are committed to keeping it healthy. Contact us today to schedule a skin cancer screening or mole check. Early detection is key in the fight against skin cancer. We recommend scheduling a full body skin check annually, especially for individuals with risk factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main types of skin cancer include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Among these, melanoma is the most dangerous, while basal and squamous cell carcinomas are classified as non-melanoma skin cancers.
UV radiation contributes to skin cancer by damaging the DNA in skin cells, resulting in mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of cancerous lesions.
Common symptoms of skin cancers, include new growths, changes in existing moles, and non-healing lesions. These changes may indicate the presence of cancer cells in the skin. It is crucial to monitor your skin regularly for these signs and consult a healthcare professional if any concerns arise.
To effectively prevent skin cancers, it is essential to consistently apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds, while also regularly inspecting your skin for any unusual changes. Adopting these practices can significantly reduce your risk.
The prognosis for melanoma is largely determined by the stage at diagnosis, with early-stage melanoma showing a near 100% five-year survival rate. As the disease progresses, survival rates decline, but there have been significant improvements in treatment outcomes over the years.