Skin Cancer

Signature Health Services can help with the management and treatment of skin cancer.

Skin Cancer and How We Care for It

What does skin cancer mean?

Skin cancer is defined by the abnormal growth of skin cells, typically developing in areas exposed to the sun. It is the most common type of cancer, with millions of patients diagnosed worldwide every year. There are three main types of skin cancer, and understanding them is crucial for early detection and treatment.

1
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type and tends to grow slowly, often appearing as a painless, frequently shiny, raised skin area with tiny blood vessels running over it.
2
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type, characterized by red, scaly patches or open sores.
3
Melanoma, though less common, is the most dangerous form of skin cancer because of its potential to spread to other body parts if not treated early rapidly. Melanoma often appears as a new dark mole or spot that changes in color, size, or shape.

How accurate are skin cancer diagnoses?

Typically, diagnosing skin cancer requires a combination of visual examination and biopsy. Dermatologists are often the first contact, though they are trained to recognize the various signs of skin cancer. During a routine exam, they will look for any suspicious lesions or moles in the outer layer of the skin. If a potentially cancerous area is found, a biopsy is performed where a small skin sample is removed and conscientiously tested under a microscope.

Early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. Advanced imaging technologies and dermatoscopes, which magnify and illuminate the skin, are also used to provide a more detailed examination. Regular skin checks, both self-examinations and professional assessments, are essential in detecting skin cancer in its early stages.

Risk factors for skin cancer

Numerous factors might increase the risk of developing skin cancer. The most significant risk factor is UV radiation exposure from the sun or tanning beds. UV skin cancer is directly linked to prolonged and unprotected sunlight exposure. Other risk factors include:

Having a history of sunburns.
Excessive outdoor activity.
Living in sunny or high-altitude climates.
A family history of skin cancer.

People with a weakened immune system, atypical moles, a large amount, or those who have had skin cancer before are also at higher risk. Protecting yourself from UV rays by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing and avoiding tanning beds can significantly reduce the risk.

Signs and symptoms of skin cancer

It is crucial to recognize the warning signs of skin cancer for early intervention. Key signs include:

New growths or sores that won’t heal
Changes in existing moles, such as size, color, or texture
New redness or swelling beyond the border of a mole
Itchiness, tenderness, or pain in a mole or other spot on the skin
Scaliness, exuding, or bleeding from a mole or skin lesion

There is a helpful guide for identifying potential melanomas, the ABCDE rule, standing for:

1
Asymmetry – One half of the mole does not match the other.
2
Border – The spot edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.
3
Color – The color is not uniform and may have shades of brown or black or pink, red, white, or blue patches.
4
Diameter – The mole is larger than about ¼ inch.
5
Evolving – The spot is changing in shape, size, or color.

What is the treatment of skin cancer?

It depends on the type, size, location, and stage of the cancer. Common treatments include:

Surgical Removal – The primary treatment for most skin cancers involves removing the cancerous tissue surgically. This may include simple excision or Mohs surgery, in which layers of skin are removed and examined until no cancerous cells remain.
Radiation Therapy – Used when surgery is not an option, radiation therapy targets cancer cells with high-energy rays.
Cryotherapy – This treatment involves freezing cancer cells with liquid nitrogen, typically used for smaller, superficial skin cancers.
Topical Treatments – Creams and ointments containing anti-cancer agents can be applied directly to the skin.
Photodynamic Therapy – Combines light and photosensitizing agents to destroy cancer cells.
Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy – Advanced or metastatic skin cancers may be treated with systemic chemotherapy or immunotherapy to boost the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.

Early-stage skin cancers are often treatable with a high success rate, while advanced cases may require more extensive treatments and have a more guarded prognosis.

Can skin cancer be prevented?

While there is no 100 percent guarantee and the cause of some cases of skin cancer remains unknown, reducing UV exposure is the most effective preventive measure. Other key strategies are:

Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more
Avoiding the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
Avoiding tanning beds and sunlamps
Regularly examining your skin for changes and visiting a dermatologist on a yearly basis

Education on the risks of UV radiation and the importance of skin protection is vital for prevention.

How can skilled home nursing help patients with skin cancer?

Skilled home nursing can provide invaluable support to patients with skin cancer, particularly those undergoing treatment or dealing with advanced stages of the disease. Home nurses can assist with the following:

Medication Management Education – Promoting the entire understanding of the patient and their caregivers to ensure timely and correct administration of medications, including pain relief and chemotherapy agents.
Wound Care – Managing surgical wounds and preventing infections.
Symptom Monitoring – Regularly checking for signs of complications or recurrence.
Emotional Support – Offering psychological support to help patients and their families cope with the emotional challenges of cancer treatment.

Home nursing enables patients to receive comprehensive care in the comfort of their homes, improving their quality of life and potentially enhancing treatment outcomes.

How much does skin cancer treatment cost in Houston, Texas?

Professional involvement in medical treatment costs depends on your health requirements and medical insurance particularities. However, a skilled nurse will always be prepared to meet a cancer patient’s needs. So please feel free to call us about any inquiry or information regarding the home care of an ill patient.

Why choose Signature Health Services?

At Signature, we have the resources and experience to provide the best quality of care for the patient and the family. Also, our registered nurses may help with assistance and could support any treatment process.

Treatments are available for those diagnosed with skin cancer, and skilled home nursing can offer critical support during the treatment process. By staying informed and proactive, we can reduce the impact of skin cancer and improve outcomes for those affected.

For more information on how Signature Health Services can help with your healthcare needs, please call 1 (800) 277-8291 (option 1) or email information@signaturehealthservices.net.