3 Skin Cancer Treatment Options
Skin cancer is a condition in which the skin itself has cancer in the cells. It may start as a small spot such as a mole, or a patch that appeared to be dry skin that won't heal. No matter how it first appeared, if you have skin cancer or a spot you think may be skin cancer, you need to get to the dermatologist to have your skin cancer diagnosed and treated properly. Read on for a few skin cancer treatment options that may be right for you.
1. Cell Removal
The area in which the skin cancer was found is usually removed and the cells around are scraped to remove any and all cancerous cells that remain. This is something that is typically done in the office, but depending on how much needs to be removed, may end up needing to be done in the hospital. The area is scraped and then tested, and scraped and tested, over and over again to ensure all of the cancer cells are gone. This may take a few tries to be sure it is all removed, and you may even need to go back in for more. If there is a lot removed, skin grafting may need to be done in order to allow the area to heal properly.
2. Radiation
Radiation may need to be done depending on how deep the skin cancer has gone and how far it has spread. This may be the right option for you if it has spread quite deeply into the skin and removal is no longer an option. Radiation can be done to kill the cancerous cells inside your body. The number of radiation treatments will depend on your cancer and how far it has spread. Radiation treatments are usually pinpointed at the site of the cancer, and the treatments themselves do not take very long.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be necessary if the cancer has spread far into the body and is now in other areas, not just your skin. If your skin cancer has spread, chemotherapy may be the best option you have. Chemotherapy treatments do take time to get through and take a lot out on the body. You may experience lack of energy, hair loss, and other concerns as well.
If you have a spot on your body that is concerning to you, you should visit your dermatologist to have it checked. An early diagnosis is key with skin cancer, as it can quickly spread. Make an appointment to have any concerning spots checked.
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