Skin Cancer Treatments

We live in a world where tanning is something we can’t seem to get enough of. Some have tried the creams, lotions and sprays but with no great results. Going to tanning booths all summer long can break the bank. The decision to go bathing in the sun make seem like a good idea, you get tanned and it doesn’t cost you much. But too much can lead to skin cancer. We often hear to stay out of the sun and wear protective clothing and skin care. What are your options? What is out there if you get skin cancer? Surgery is a common form of treatment but there are other options. Skin Grafting- This is where the skin graft replaces skin that has been damaged by the cancer. Electrodesiccation and Curettage- The lesion is burned and then removed with a sharp instrument. Laser Therapy- A narrow light is beamed where the cancerous cells are and removes them. Mohs Micrographic Surgery- While trying to keep as much tissue as possible, the surgeon removes the cancer. Afterwards he looks to ensure that the area is free of cancer cells. Excision- The surgeon cuts the skin and the good healthy tissue around the area. Cryosurgery- The tumor is freeze and the cancer cells are killed. Other forms of treatment are: Electrochemotherapy- A combination of electrical pulses and chemotherapy are use to treat cancer. Radiation Therapy- X-rays from a radiation machine is use to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells. Immunotherapy- Medicine is injected into the body to help give the immune a boost which helps to slow the growth of the cancer. Biological therapy- A therapy that uses your own body to try and boost or restore your body’s nature defenses against the disease. Photodynamic therapy- A special chemical and light are used to kill the cancer cells. Systemic Chemotherapy-Chemotherapy is taken by a needle injection into the muscle or vein. Or it can be taken in pill form. Topical Chemotherapy- Chemotherapy as a lotion or cream applied to the skin to kill cancer cells. The form of treatment depends on your age, health, what stage the cancer is in and or your preference on what you’d like. If you’re fair skinned or others in your family have had it, there’s a higher chance of getting it. Always remember to wear sun skin care and wear protective clothing, hats and sunwear.