Skin cancers are broadly categorized as – Melanoma and other skin cancers (Non-Melanoma).Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma are the three most common kinds of skin cancer. Now, we are going to discuss more about skin cancer surgery and treatment.

Globally, melanoma of the skin is the 17th most widespread cancer. Skin cancer affects men as the 13th most common cancer and women as the 15th. As skin cancer treatment in India progresses, dealing with the rising cases of skin cancer becomes extremely important. According to World cancer research fund international, the year 2020 witnessed an alarming surge in new cases, with over 150,000 individuals being diagnosed with melanoma of the skin.

Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow too much because of sunlight. While sunburns and excessive sun exposure are common triggers, it’s essential to recognize that skin cancer can emerge even in areas less touched by sunlight. Skin cancer, a serious and sometimes dangerous illness, emphasizes the importance of sun protection, early detection, and effective treatment.

Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It comes from cells that give color to your skin. To stop it, it’s good to protect your skin from too much sun. By using protective clothing, and sunscreen, and avoiding tanning beds or lamps, you can limit the risk of skin cancer.

Different Types of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. It appears in different types, the main four categories of skin cancer are:

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Around 80% of skin cancers begin in round cells called basal cells, found in the lower part of the skin. This type of cancer is called BCC and is often seen on the head and neck when there’s too much sun. It doesn’t grow quickly and usually stays where it starts, not spreading to other places in the body.
2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): About 20% of skin cancers come from flat cells called squamous cells that cover most of the skin. This type is called SCC and happens when the skin gets too much sun or is harmed by burns or chemicals. It can show up in different places on the skin, including lips and scars. Sometimes, it might spread to other parts.

(Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma are collectively called keratinocyte carcinoma, as they begin from a cell type called keratinocyte).

3. Merkel Cell Cancer: Merkel cell cancer is a type of cancer that doesn’t happen a lot and grows quickly. It starts in cells that make hormones and are under the skin and hair roots. It’s usually seen on the head and neck.
4. Melanoma: Melanoma, the toughest kind of skin cancer, begins in cells that give color to your skin. It’s not very common, but it’s more harmful, making up only about 1% of skin cancers. Melanoma might show up as a new or changing mole. If an old mole becomes bigger, different in shape, color, or feel, it could be melanoma. You can use the “ABCDE” approach to help figure out if a mole might be melanoma:

• A – Asymmetrical: Cancerous moles aren’t the same on both sides. One half might look different from the other.
• B – Border: The edges of a cancerous mole might be uneven, bumpy, or notched, while a healthy mole has smooth and even edges.
• C – Color change: A cancerous mole can have various colors like tan, brown, black, red, white, or blue. Healthy moles usually have just one color.
• D – Diameter: A cancerous mole tends to be larger than 6 mm, around the size of a small button.
• E – Evolving: Keep watch if a mole changes in size, shape, or texture. Healthy moles usually stay the same.

(There are other rare skin cancers like lymphomas, Kaposi sarcoma, and sarcomas).

Signs and Symptoms of Skin Cancer

1. Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Usually seen on sun-exposed areas of your skin, such as your face and neck.
• Can seem like a shiny lump like wax or a pearl.
• Often appears as a flat mark similar to a scar.
• It might be a sore that scabs, bleeds, and then reappears.

2. Squamous Cell Carcinoma:

• Frequently found in places that get sunlight, like your face and hands.
• Could appear as a hard, red bump.
• Might look like a flat spot with a rough, scaly covering.

3. Melanoma:

• Might grow anywhere, even in moles you already have.
• Often seen on men’s faces or bodies, as well as women’s lower legs.
• Signs can be a large brown spot with darker spots or a mole that changes.
• Small spots might have a wavy edge and colors like red, pink, or dark blue.
• Painful, itching or burning areas might also be an indication.
• Dark spots on your hands, feet, nails, or inside your mouth could mean something’s not right.

4. Less Common Skin Cancers:

• Kaposi sarcoma: Looks like red or purple patches, often in folks with weaker immune systems or specific backgrounds.
• Merkel cell carcinoma: Makes firm lumps, usually on the head and neck.
• Sebaceous gland carcinoma: Forms stiff lumps on the eyelids. Some individuals mistake it for another eye condition.

Risk Factors Associated with Skin Cancer

• Excessive Sun Exposure: Prolonged and unprotected exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
• Fair Skin: People with fair skin, light hair, and light-colored eyes are at higher risk due to reduced melanin protection.
• History of Sunburns: Multiple blistering sunburns, especially during childhood.
• Use of Tanning Beds: Artificial UV radiation from tanning beds or lamps.
• Family History: Having a family member with skin cancer.
• Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation, or certain medications can weaken the immune system and elevate risk.
• Precancerous Skin Lesions: Certain skin conditions, like actinic keratosis, can progress to cancer over time.
• Moles: Large numbers of moles or unusual moles can indicate a higher risk.
• Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 40.
• Chemical Exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals, like arsenic, can heighten risk.
• Radiation Therapy: Past radiation treatment may increase the risk of skin cancer in the treated area.

Diagnosis of Skin Cancer

The process of diagnosing skin cancer involves a series of careful steps to discover the presence of this condition, including:

1. Biopsies: A skin biopsy involves the removal of a small sample of the suspicious skin area. This procedure is typically painless, as the doctor numbs the area before taking the sample. Biopsies not only confirm cancer’s presence but also tell us more about its type and how far it has spread. Different types of biopsies are used:

• Excisional Biopsy: The entire growth is taken out.
• Shave Biopsy: The upper layers of the problem area are shaved off.
• Punch Biopsy: A small, circular piece of the tumor is removed, even from deeper skin layers.

2. Imaging tests: They are really important for finding certain skin cancers, especially if they might have spread inside your body. Doctors use methods like CT scans, X-rays, and MRIs to look inside you without any pain or surgery. These tests help doctors see if the cancer has reached other parts like your organs or bones. While some skin cancers mostly stay in one spot, others like melanoma can be more aggressive and might need these tests to see how far they’ve spread. It’s like getting a special picture of what’s happening inside to make sure you get the right treatment.

3. Blood Tests: Even though there isn’t a specific blood test to detect skin cancer, other blood tests like the complete blood count can still help. They give important clues about your general health and possible signs of the disease. These tests can also help doctors figure out how advanced the cancer is and check how well the treatment is working.

Skin Cancer Surgery and Treatment Options

Due to progress in medical technology and an expanding network of healthcare centers, India provides a wide array of comprehensive care choices for people diagnosed with skin cancer. Various treatments available are:

1. Surgery:

• Excision: The cancerous growth is removed along with a margin of healthy tissue. The cost can range from $135 to $675, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
• Mohs Surgery: Layer-by-layer removal of cancerous tissue while sparing healthy skin. Prices may start from $200 for smaller cases
• Lymph Node Dissection: If cancer has spread, this procedure involves the removal of adjacent lymph nodes.

2. Radiation Therapy:

• External Beam Radiation: Targeted radiation is delivered externally to the affected area. The cost per session may range from $40 to $135.
• Brachytherapy: Internal radiation sources are placed near the tumor site.

3. Chemotherapy:

• Topical Chemotherapy: Creams or lotions containing anticancer drugs are applied to the skin.
• Systemic Chemotherapy: Medications are taken orally or intravenously to target cancer cells throughout the body.

4. Immunotherapy:

• Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: Medicines that assist the immune system in recognizing and attacking cancer cells. Prices can range from $675 to $1350 or more per session.
• Cytokine Therapy: Boosting the immune response through protein-based treatments.

5. Targeted Therapy:

• BRAF Inhibitors: Drugs that target specific genetic mutations present in some skin cancers. Prices for targeted therapy can start from $675 per session.
• MEK Inhibitors: Used in combination with BRAF inhibitors for certain cases.

6. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A light-sensitive medication is applied to the skin and activated with light to destroy cancer cells. PDT costs can range from $135 to $405 per session.
7. Cryotherapy: Freezing the cancerous tissue to destroy it.
8. Electrochemotherapy: A combination of chemotherapy and electrical pulses to enhance drug absorption.
9. Supportive Therapies: Pain management, wound care, and psychological support to improve quality of life.

Best Hospitals for Skin Cancer Treatment in India

Choosing the right skin cancer treatment is influenced by many things. These include the kind of cancer, how far it has spread, where it’s located, your health, and what you’re comfortable with. Your doctors and specialists will talk with you to figure out the best plan. In India, there are really good hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore that offer great care for skin cancer. They have the best equipment and skilled doctors. They focus on what’s best for you and use advanced methods. India is becoming known for excellent skin cancer care. To make the best decisions, talk to expert doctors and explore your options. You can even look for the best skin cancer hospital in India to get the right treatment for you.

MEDANTA- THE MEDICITY – GURGAON

BLK SUPER SPECIALITY HOSPITAL – NEW DELHI

MAX SUPER SPECIALTY HOSPITAL – NEW DELHI

INDRAPRASTHA APOLLO HOSPITAL – NEW DELHI

KOKILABEN DHIRUBHAI AMBANI HOSPITAL – MUMBAI

JAYPEE HOSPITAL-NOIDA

FORTIS MEMORIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (FMRI) – GURGAON

ARTEMIS HOSPITAL – GURGAON

FORTIS HOSPITAL – NOIDA

FORTIS MEMORIAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE – GURGAON

MANIPAL HOSPITAL – BANGALORE

Top Doctors for Skin Cancer Treatment in India

India boasts a unit of top doctors for skin cancer treatment. With deep expertise and advanced techniques, these professionals provide personalized care, guiding patients through diagnosis, treatment planning, and therapies. Dermatologists, oncologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists are among the key medical specialists involved in skin cancer treatment. These experts work collaboratively to diagnose, plan treatment strategies, and provide comprehensive care to patients.

1. Dr. Hitesh Dawar – Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh
2. Dr. Arun Goel – Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali
3. Dr. Priya Tiwari – Artemis Health Institute, Gurgaon
4. Dr. Vivek Mangla – Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali
5. Dr. Rajender Kaur Saggu – Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh
6. Dr. Sunil Sanghi – Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
7. Dr. Monica Bambroo – Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
8. Dr. Jyoti Wadhwa – Medanta Medicity, Gurgaon
9. Dr. Priya Tiwari – Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
10. Dr. Vinod Raina – Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon

Skin Cancer Treatment Cost in India

In many Western countries, the cost of Skin Cancer Treatment can be very high. However, India is famous for its advanced medical care and technology for treating skin cancer. Some of the best hospitals for Skin Cancer Treatment are located in India.

Skin Cancer Treatment in India is much cheaper compared to other countries. It costs a lot less here than in developed nations. On average, Skin Cancer Treatment in India costs around $2,600 to $5,200. This makes it an affordable option for high-quality treatment. Costs of various skin cancer surgeries in India:

• Mohs surgery: $2400 – $3000
• Cryosurgery: $3600 – $4000
• Squamous cell carcinoma treatment: $4400 – $7000
• Melanoma treatment: $3000 – $4600

Skin Cancer Success Rate in India

Skin cancer treatment in India has shown impressive success rates. For early stages of melanoma (0, 1, and 2), the five-year survival rate is very high at 98.3%. In stage 3, it’s 63.7%, and in stage 4, it’s 22.6%. For basal cell carcinoma, the five-year survival rate is 100%, and for squamous cell carcinoma, it’s 95%. These numbers highlight the effectiveness of skin cancer treatment options in India.