Skin cancer

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is a general term for several types of cancer that develop in the skin. The most common types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Malignant melanoma (MM) is less common but more serious and requires prompt assessment and treatment.

Skin cancer can appear in many different ways. It may present as a sore that does not heal, a growing lump, a crusted or bleeding lesion, or a mole that changes in appearance. If skin cancer is suspected, it is important to have the area assessed by a doctor.

Basal Cell Carcinoma – BCC

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It usually develops slowly and very rarely spreads to other parts of the body.

BCC often occurs on sun-exposed areas such as the face, nose, ears, and scalp. It may appear as a shiny or pearly lump, a small sore that repeatedly crusts or bleeds, or as a reddish skin lesion.

Treatment depends on factors such as the size, location, and type of lesion. Surgical removal is a commonly used treatment.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma – SCC

Squamous cell carcinoma develops from the squamous cells of the skin and is often found in areas that have been exposed to significant sunlight over the years.

It may appear as a firm lump, a thickened or scaly skin lesion, or a sore that does not heal. SCC can sometimes behave more aggressively than BCC and may, in rare cases, spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

For this reason, correct assessment, removal, and microscopic examination are important.

Malignant Melanoma – MM

Malignant melanoma develops from the pigment-producing cells of the skin. It is the type of skin cancer in which early diagnosis is particularly important.

A melanoma may develop in an existing mole or appear as a new pigmented skin lesion. Warning signs may include changes in size, shape, colour, or border, as well as a mole that begins to bleed, itch, or otherwise change in character.

If malignant melanoma is suspected, the lesion should be assessed and treated according to current cancer pathways and clinical guidelines. Further treatment depends on the findings from the microscopic examination.

Assessment and Treatment at AGATA

During the consultation, the doctor will assess the skin lesion and determine the appropriate next step. If indicated, the lesion may be surgically removed, usually under local anaesthesia, and the tissue will be sent for histological examination.

The microscopic examination helps determine the exact type of lesion and whether it has been removed with an adequate margin. Depending on the result, further treatment or follow-up may be required.

In relevant cases, patients may be referred by their general practitioner, specialist, or the regional healthcare system for assessment and treatment. When treatment is covered through the public healthcare referral system, there is no cost to the patient.

When to Seek Medical Advice

You should have a skin lesion assessed if it:

• grows or changes in appearance
• bleeds without an obvious reason
• repeatedly forms a sore or crust
• does not heal
• changes in colour, shape, or border
• looks noticeably different from your other moles or skin lesions

Early assessment provides the best opportunity for straightforward and effective treatment.