Reviewed By: Dr. Joshua Newman
Your first appointment is the ideal time to have an open, informative conversation with your surgeon about your skin cancer treatment. It’s natural to want to be well-prepared and confident before moving forward with any procedure. By educating yourself and asking the right questions, you can address any concerns or uncertainties about your diagnosis and skin cancer treatment options. If you’re unsure where to start, here are some key questions to ask your surgeon before your skin cancer surgery.
1. What causes skin cancer?
Starting with our first on the list of skin cancer dermatologist consultation tips, what causes skin cancer?
Skin cancer primarily develops due to DNA damage in skin cells, often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. UV radiation leads to mutations in the DNA of skin cells, particularly affecting the skin’s basal and squamous cells. Over time, these mutations can result in uncontrolled cell growth, forming a tumor. Other factors, such as genetic predisposition, a weakened immune system (e.g., from organ transplants), and environmental factors like exposure to chemicals or radiation, can also increase the risk of developing skin cancer.
2. Is melanoma considered skin cancer?
Yes, melanoma is a type of skin cancer, but it is much rarer and more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma, which are more common forms. Melanoma arises from melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. While melanoma accounts for only about 2% of all skin cancer cases, it is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths due to its ability to metastasize quickly. Early detection and skin cancer treatment are critical for improving survival rates.
3. What are the different types of skin cancer?
There are several types of skin cancer, each with distinct characteristics:
- Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): The most common form of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. BCC usually appears as a shiny, pearly bump or a flat, scaly patch and tends to grow slowly.
- Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): The second most common form, SCC accounts for about 16% of skin cancer cases. It can appear as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
- Melanoma: A less common but more dangerous form of skin cancer, melanoma originates in melanocytes. It often appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole’s size, shape, or color.
- Merkel cell carcinoma: A rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that presents as a painless, fast-growing nodule, typically on sun-exposed areas of the skin.
- Kaposi’s sarcoma: Typically associated with immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, this cancer presents as purplish lesions on the skin.
4. What are the early signs of skin cancer to ask about?
Skin cancer often presents as new growths or changes in existing moles or spots. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Basal cell carcinoma: Appears as a shiny, waxy bump, often on sun-exposed areas such as the face or neck.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: May look like a firm, red bump or a flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface.
- Melanoma: May appear as an irregularly shaped mole with multiple colors. The edges may be uneven, and it may change in size or bleed.
- Merkel cell carcinoma: Appears as a fast-growing, painless, purple or red nodule.
If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, it’s important to seek evaluation by a healthcare professional for skin cancer testing and possible biopsy.
5. How can I tell if my skin cancer is melanoma?
To determine if a mole or skin lesion might be melanoma, dermatologists recommend the ABCDE method:
- A: Asymmetry—one half of the mole does not match the other.
- B: Border—edges are irregular, not smooth.
- C: Color—multiple colors or uneven coloring.
- D: Diameter—larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
- E: Evolving—changes in size, shape, color, or texture. If you notice any of these, it’s critical to consult a healthcare provider for a biopsy to confirm the skin cancer diagnosis.
6. What are my skin cancer treatment options?
Treatment for skin cancer depends on the type, stage, and location of the tumor:
- Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Often treated through minor surgeries like excision (cutting out the tumor), Mohs surgery (layer-by-layer removal), or cryotherapy (freezing the tumor). Topical treatments or radiation may also be options in some cases.
- Melanoma: Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue. If melanoma has spread (metastasized), treatment options include immunotherapy (e.g., pembrolizumab), targeted therapy (e.g., BRAF inhibitors), chemotherapy, and radiation.
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Requires surgical excision, possibly with lymph node removal, and may also involve radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
7. What are the side effects of skin cancer treatments?
The side effects of skin cancer treatments depend on the type of treatment:
- Surgical removal: May cause pain, swelling, or scarring at the incision site. In cases of extensive surgery, reconstructive surgery may be necessary.
- Radiation therapy: Can lead to skin irritation, redness, or peeling. In some cases, it may also cause fatigue or nausea.
- Immunotherapy: Side effects may include fatigue, rash, flu-like symptoms, and gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea.
- Chemotherapy: Often causes nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, and a weakened immune system.
8. Can skin cancer be prevented?
While you cannot eliminate the risk entirely, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing skin cancer by:
- Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure.
- Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
- Using sunscreen with broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) protection and SPF 30 or higher.
- Regular self-skin checks are performed to monitor for changes in moles or the appearance of new spots.
- Scheduling annual skin exams with a dermatologist, particularly if you have risk factors like fair skin or a family history of skin cancer.
9. How do I examine myself for skin cancer?
Performing monthly skin self-exams can help catch skin cancer early:
- Use a full-length mirror and a hand mirror to inspect all areas of your skin, including the scalp, between your toes, and the soles of your feet.
- Look for new growths, changes in existing moles, or areas that are bleeding or itching.
- Keep track of changes by noting them down or taking photos for comparison. Show any suspicious spots to a dermatologist as soon as possible.
10. What is ultraviolet radiation, and how does it relate to skin cancer?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is classified as a carcinogen because it can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to skin cancer. UV radiation is composed of UVA and UVB rays:
- UVA rays: These long-wave rays penetrate deep into the skin, leading to premature aging and DNA damage, which can contribute to melanoma.
- UVB rays: These shorter waves are primarily responsible for sunburns and can damage the outer layers of the skin, contributing to basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Protecting your skin from UV radiation is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer.
Book Your Appointment with AMARA Dermatologists
Have more questions to ask about your skin cancer diagnosis? Whether your questions are dermatologic or aesthetic in nature, our specialists in Venice, FL, USA, can help. Click our Schedule Online link or call us at 941-499-7823 to make an appointment today.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, medical knowledge is constantly evolving, and new research may change the nature of certain conditions. Please remember to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for proper diagnosis, treatment, and guidance regarding skin cancer or any other medical condition.