What methods are recommended for the treatment of skin cancer (excluding surgery)?
The oncologic treatment corresponds to laser in certain cases, depending on the type and depth of the tumor lesion. Among the physical methods we have liquid nitrogen: this is a very important therapeutic weapon today that completely destroys all superficial tumor lesions and, sometimes, some deeper ones. Some topical treatments can also be used which, through the direct application of a specific cream, burn the lesions at the level of the skin.
What type of anesthesia should be used?
Normally, when a surgical or laser treatment is performed, an anesthetic is used subcutaneously and interdermally at peri-lesional level. All other types of physical or chemical treatments no longer require prior anesthesia.
Are there any risks or side effects?
In principle it can be said that the risks arising from the treatments that can be performed by laser may leave some scarring but, obviously, it is much better to leave a scar than to leave a tumor. Both physical and chemical methods are not usually used to leave a scar.
What results can be expected?
The results that can and should be obtained are the healing of the tumors. In this sense, depending on the type of tumor, location, depth and other factors to be taken into account, the most appropriate treatment will be chosen from among the techniques described above.
When can I resume my activities after treatment?
Normally patients can return to work the same day of the treatment.
How can skin cancer be detected?
It is necessary to consult a dermatologist when any skin lesion shows changes or when there is any new lesion that does not heal or does not improve. Also when this lesion starts to bother, to bleed, to itch or to change color, it would oblige to consult the specialist.