Skin Cancer Treatment in Nagpur

Understanding Skin Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Kingsway Hospital, Nagpur

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but it is also one of the most preventable cancers. It develops when skin cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Skin cancer can affect any part of the skin, including the scalp, face, neck, and limbs. It is often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Early detection is essential for successful treatment, and Kingsway Hospital in Nagpur offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options for skin cancer.

Types of Skin Cancer

There are three main types of skin cancer, each with different characteristics and treatment options:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

The most common type of skin cancer.

Typically develops in the basal cells, which are found at the bottom of the outer layer of skin (epidermis).
Usually appears as a small, shiny bump or nodule, often in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, or arms.
BCC is slow-growing and rarely spreads to other parts of the body but can cause significant damage to surrounding tissues.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

The second most common form of skin cancer.

It develops in the squamous cells, which are found just beneath the skin’s surface.
SCC can appear as a firm, red nodule or a scaly, crusted growth. It is more likely to spread to other parts of the body compared to BCC.
SCC is often linked to chronic sun exposure and tanning beds.

Melanoma

The least common but most dangerous form of skin cancer.

Melanoma develops in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment (melanin) in the skin.
It typically appears as a new mole or a change in an existing mole, often with irregular borders, multiple colors, and an asymmetrical shape.
Melanoma can spread to other parts of the body quickly, making early detection and treatment crucial.

Risk Factors for Skin Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing skin cancer. These include:

Excessive Sun Exposure: Spending long periods in the sun, especially during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), increases the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
Tanning Beds: Use of tanning beds or sunlamps, which expose the skin to artificial UV radiation, significantly raises the risk of developing skin cancer.
Fair Skin: People with fair or light-colored skin are more prone to sunburn and skin damage, which increases the risk of skin cancer.
Family History: A family history of skin cancer can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer.
Previous Skin Cancer: If you’ve had skin cancer before, you’re at a higher risk of developing it again.
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with a weakened immune system due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, or other immunosuppressive treatments are at higher risk.
Age: The risk of skin cancer increases with age, particularly for individuals over 50.
History of Sunburns: Having had severe sunburns, especially in childhood, can increase the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Exposure to Chemicals: Certain chemicals, such as arsenic or some industrial chemicals, may increase the risk of skin cancer.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer symptoms may vary depending on the type and location of the tumor. Common signs and symptoms of skin cancer include:

New Growths or Moles: A new mole or growth on the skin, especially one that changes size, shape, or color.
Changes in Existing Moles: Existing moles that change in appearance, become asymmetrical, or develop irregular borders.
Itchy or Painful Skin: Skin lesions that itch, bleed, or cause pain.
Bleeding or Crusting Lesions: Sores that do not heal, bleed, or form crusts, particularly in areas exposed to the sun.
Dark Spots or Streaks Under the Nails: Melanoma can also appear under the nails or on the palms or soles of the feet.

Diagnosis of Skin Cancer

The diagnosis of skin cancer at Kingsway Hospital in Nagpur begins with a thorough examination by a dermatologist or oncologist. Diagnostic procedures include:

Skin Examination: A detailed inspection of the skin to look for any suspicious moles, lesions, or growths.
Biopsy: If a suspicious lesion is found, a biopsy is performed to remove a sample of tissue for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Dermatoscopy: A specialized magnifying tool called a dermatoscope is used to examine skin lesions in greater detail.
Imaging Tests: For more advanced cases of skin cancer or melanoma, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI may be used to determine whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Staging of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is staged based on its size, depth, and spread to nearby tissues or organs. Staging helps determine the most appropriate treatment options.

Stage 0: Also known as carcinoma in situ, where the cancer is confined to the outer layer of the skin and has not spread.
Stage I: The cancer is localized and small, with no signs of spreading to nearby lymph nodes or organs.
Stage II: The tumor is larger or deeper but has not yet spread to other parts of the body.
Stage III: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or surrounding tissues.
Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant organs or lymph nodes.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer

At Kingsway Hospital in Nagpur, treatment for skin cancer is personalized based on the type, size, and stage of cancer. Common treatment options include:

Surgery

Excision: The tumor and surrounding healthy tissue are surgically removed. This is the most common treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers such as BCC and SCC.
Mohs Surgery: A specialized surgical technique for removing skin cancer in stages while preserving healthy tissue. It is often used for cancers in areas where cosmetic and functional preservation is important, such as the face.
Lymph Node Dissection: If skin cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, they may be removed surgically.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target cancer cells. It is commonly used for tumors that are difficult to remove surgically, or for patients who cannot undergo surgery. It may also be used after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It is typically used for more advanced skin cancers or melanoma that has spread to other areas.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapies are drugs designed to target specific genes or proteins that help cancer cells grow. This treatment is particularly useful for melanoma and other advanced skin cancers.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. It is often used for melanoma and other advanced skin cancers, particularly when the cancer has spread.

Supportive Care and Rehabilitation

Skin cancer treatments can have side effects, including changes in appearance, pain, and fatigue. At Kingsway Hospital in Nagpur, we provide supportive care to help patients manage these effects:

Wound Care: Proper care of surgical wounds and radiation-induced skin reactions to ensure healing and minimize infection.
Psychological Support: Counseling and emotional support for patients dealing with the emotional and psychological impact of skin cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery: For patients who require skin removal, reconstructive surgery options are available to restore the appearance and function of the affected areas.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

The best way to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure and avoid risk factors. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of skin cancer:

Avoid Tanning Beds: Never use tanning beds, as they increase the risk of skin cancer.
Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with a high SPF (30 or higher) to exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
Seek Shade: Stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Wear Protective Clothing: Wear hats, sunglasses, and clothing that covers the skin when outdoors.
Regular Skin Checkups: Regularly check your skin for any new moles or changes to existing moles, and consult with a doctor if you notice anything suspicious.
Get Regular Dermatological Checkups: Visit a dermatologist for annual skin checks, particularly if you have a family history of skin cancer.

Skin cancer is a serious but highly treatable condition when caught early. Kingsway Hospital in Nagpur offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options for skin cancer, with personalized care and comprehensive support for patients. If you notice any unusual growths or changes in your skin, schedule a consultation with a specialist at Kingsway Hospital to ensure early detection and the best possible treatment plan.