I am 45 years old and recently developed rough moles. An examination revealed skin cancer. How is this disease treated, and is it curable? (Van Tung, Vinh Long )
Reply:
Skin cancer is a condition where skin cells grow uncontrollably. There are three common types: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma (malignant moles).
Basal cell carcinoma accounts for approximately 80% of skin cancer cases. This type of cancer progresses slowly and is curable if detected and treated correctly, with a 5-year survival rate of up to 100%. In later stages, when cancer cells have metastasized to the lungs, heart, brain, etc., the success rate drops to only 20-40%.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 20%.
Malignant melanoma is the most dangerous type of cancer, invasive, and rapidly progressing from moles, birthmarks, and age spots, metastasizing to other parts of the body. Patients detected and diagnosed in stage one have a relatively high 5-year survival rate of approximately 99%. If not detected early, malignant melanoma spreads beneath the skin's surface and becomes more difficult to remove.
To treat skin cancer, doctors typically surgically remove about 1-2 cm of cancerous tissue and surrounding tissue, followed by cosmetic reconstruction. Depending on the pathology results, patients may also receive radiation therapy to prevent cancer recurrence.
He should see a doctor to determine the stage and type of skin cancer, so that the doctor can develop an appropriate treatment plan and prognosis.
The biggest cause of skin cancer is radiation from ultraviolet rays from sunlight. Other risk factors include having many moles, sunburn, older age, and smoking. People who work in high temperatures and outdoors; or who are frequently exposed to coal, arsenic compounds, and X-rays also have a higher risk of skin cancer.
To reduce the risk of skin cancer, people should avoid sun exposure and limit going outside during peak UV hours (10 am - 2 pm). Apply sunscreen at least 10 minutes before going outside and reapply every 30 minutes if outdoors, and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
Individuals with symptoms such as small lumps, sores, or red or light brown patches on the skin with a rough, scaly, or crusted surface should consult a Head and Neck specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
Moles with indistinct borders, unusual color, itching, redness, increasing size, asymmetry, unexplained skin lesions that last longer than two weeks, can also be warning signs of skin cancer and require prompt examination.
MSc. Dr. Doan Minh Trong
Head and Neck Unit, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City
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