Skin Cancers

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells of the skin and is the most common form of cancer in Australia. At Hills Surgical Oncology, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak, a leading Head and Neck Surgeon and Surgical Oncologist in Sydney, specialises in treating skin cancers that occur in the head and neck region. Skin cancer happens when skin cells grow abnormally, usually due to damage from sun exposure. While it can be serious, most skin cancers can be successfully treated if caught early.

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What are the different types of Skin Cancer?

There are several types of skin cancer, each named after the type of skin cell from which they arise. At Hills Surgical Oncology, located in Wahroonga and Norwest, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak treats various types of skin cancer. The main types include:

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

This is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells, which are in the lower part of the epidermis (the top layer of skin). BCC rarely spreads to other parts of the body but can grow deep and wide, damaging surrounding tissue.

Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma

In some cases, BCC can become advanced, growing deep into the skin and nearby tissues. This can happen if the cancer is left untreated or if it's particularly aggressive. Advanced BCC can be more challenging to treat and may require more extensive surgery or other treatments.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

This is the second most common type of skin cancer. It develops in the squamous cells, which are in the upper part of the epidermis. SCC is more likely than BCC to spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma

When SCC grows deep into the skin or spreads to other parts of the body, it's considered advanced. This can happen if the cancer is left untreated or if it's particularly aggressive. Advanced SCC requires prompt and often more intensive treatment.

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Melanoma

While less common, melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It develops in the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment. Melanoma can spread quickly to other parts of the body if not caught early.As an experienced surgical oncologist in Sydney, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak is skilled in identifying and treating these various types of skin cancer, including advanced cases.

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What causes Skin Cancer?

The main cause of skin cancer is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This UV exposure can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. However, several factors can increase your risk of developing skin cancer:

• Fair skin: People with less melanin (pigment) in their skin have less protection from UV radiation.
• History of sunburn: Having had one or more severe, blistering sunburns increases your risk.
• Excessive sun exposure: Spending a lot of time in the sun, especially without protection, increases your risk.
• Sunny or high-altitude climates: Living in these areas exposes you to more UV radiation.
• Moles: Having many moles or unusual moles increases your risk.
• Family history: If a close relative has had skin cancer, you have an increased risk.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems have an increased risk of skin cancer.
• Age: The risk of skin cancer increases as you get older.

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What are the symptoms of Skin Cancer?

The symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type. Here are some general signs to watch for:

• ‍Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)‍
  • A pearly or waxy bump
  • A flat, flesh-coloured or brown scar-like lesion
  • A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC):‍
  • A firm, red nodule
  • A flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface
• Melanoma: Remember the ABCDE rule:
  • A is for Asymmetry: One half doesn't match the other half.
  • B is for Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred.
  • C is for Colour: The colour is not the same all over and may include shades of brown or black, sometimes with patches of pink, red, white, or blue.
  • D is for Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimetres across.
  • E is for Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or colour
• Advanced Skin Cancers: Advanced skin cancers, whether BCC or SCC, may show these additional symptoms:
  • Larger size (usually more than 2 cm)
  • Deep growth into the skin
  • Rapid growth
  • Repeated bleeding or crusting
  • Pain or numbness in the affected area
  • Spread to nearby lymph nodes (which may feel like hard lumps under the skin)

If you notice any of these signs, especially in the head and neck area, it's important to consult your GP, dermatologist, or specialist like Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak at Hills Surgical Oncology promptly as early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for skin cancer patients.

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How is Skin Cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosing skin cancer involves several steps. At Hills Surgical Oncology, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak uses a comprehensive approach to ensure accurate diagnosis:

• Skin Examination: The doctor will carefully examine your skin, looking for any suspicious spots or growths.
• Dermoscopy: This involves using a special magnifying lens to examine the suspicious area more closely.
• Biopsy: If a spot looks suspicious, a biopsy will be performed. This involves removing all or part of the suspicious area and examining it under a microscope. There are several types of skin biopsies:
• Shave biopsy: The surface of the skin is shaved off.
• Punch biopsy: A small, round piece of skin is removed.
• Incisional biopsy: Part of the growth is removed.
• Excisional biopsy: The entire growth and some surrounding skin is removed.
• Imaging Tests: For suspected advanced skin cancers, imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be ordered to check if the cancer has spread.
• Lymph Node Biopsy: For some types of skin cancer, especially melanoma or advanced SCC, a lymph node biopsy may be done to check if the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.

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What are the treatment options for Skin Cancer?

Treatment for skin cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, its location, and the patient's overall health. At Hills Surgical Oncology, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak works closely with a team of specialists to provide comprehensive care. The main treatment options include:

Surgery

Surgery is the primary treatment for most skin cancers. The type of surgery depends on the type, size, and location of the skin cancer:

• Excision: The cancer and some surrounding healthy skin are cut out.
• Mohs Surgery: This technique involves removing the cancer layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells remain. It's often used for cancers on the face.
• Curettage and Electrodesiccation: The cancer is scraped away and the area is treated with an electric needle to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
• Lymph Node Dissection: For advanced skin cancers that have spread to lymph nodes, the affected lymph nodes may need to be removed.
• Reconstructive Surgery: For larger or complex excisions, especially in the head and neck area, reconstructive surgery may be needed to restore appearance and function.

As a highly skilled surgical oncologist in Sydney, Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak specialises in complex head and neck surgeries. He uses advanced techniques to remove skin cancers while preserving as much normal function and appearance as possible.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used:

1. For skin cancers that can't be removed surgically
2. After surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells
3. To relieve symptoms of advanced skin cancer

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used:

1. As a topical treatment (applied to the skin) for very early skin cancers
2. As a systemic treatment (taken by mouth or injected into a vein) for advanced skin cancers that have spread to other parts of the body

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy helps your immune system fight cancer. It's often used for advanced skin cancers or to help prevent recurrence after surgery.

Targeted Therapy

These drugs target specific features of cancer cells. They're often used for advanced basal cell carcinomas or melanomas with specific genetic changes.

Photodynamic Therapy

This treatment uses special drugs and light to kill cancer cells. It's sometimes used for very early skin cancers.Dr Abdul-Razak at Hills Surgical Oncology stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in skin cancer treatment. He works closely with each patient to develop a personalised treatment plan that offers the best chance of success while considering the patient's overall health and preferences.

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What is the recovery like after Skin Cancer surgery?

Recovery from skin cancer treatment can vary depending on the type and extent of the treatment. At Hills Surgical Oncology, we're committed to supporting our patients throughout their entire recovery journey.After surgery, the initial recovery period typically lasts a few weeks. During this time, patients may need to:

• Care for the surgical site as instructed
• Manage pain with prescribed medications
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and check for any signs of recurrence

For patients who've had extensive surgery in the head and neck area, rehabilitation may be necessary. This could include:

• Physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
• Occupational therapy to help with daily activities
• Speech therapy if speech or swallowing has been affected

Patients who've had radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy may experience side effects that can last for several weeks or months after treatment ends. These may include fatigue, skin changes, and immune-related side effects.Long-term follow-up care is crucial for skin cancer survivors. Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak and the team at Hills Surgical Oncology provide ongoing monitoring to check for any signs of cancer recurrence and manage any lasting effects of treatment.

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Why Choose Hills Surgical Oncology for Skin Cancer Treatment?

When facing a skin cancer diagnosis, choosing the right care team is crucial. Here's why patients in the Hills area, Wahroonga, Norwest, and throughout Sydney choose Hills Surgical Oncology:

• Expertise: Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak is a highly skilled head and neck surgeon and surgical oncologist with extensive experience in treating complex skin cancers.
• Comprehensive care: We offer a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating with other specialists to provide complete care from diagnosis through treatment and recovery.
• Advanced techniques: We use the latest surgical techniques and technologies to achieve the best possible outcomes while minimising side effects.
• Personalised treatment: We understand that every patient is unique. Dr Abdul-Razak takes the time to develop individualised treatment plans that consider each patient's specific needs and preferences.
• Supportive environment: Our team is committed to providing compassionate care in a supportive, patient-centred environment.
• Convenient locations: With clinics in Wahroonga and the Hills area, we make it easy for patients to access high-quality care close to home.

If you're concerned about skin cancer or have been diagnosed with this condition, don't hesitate to reach out to Hills Surgical Oncology. Dr Muzib Abdul-Razak and our team are here to provide the expert care and support you need throughout your treatment journey. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes with skin cancer. Regular skin checks and prompt attention to any suspicious changes can make a significant difference. At Hills Surgical Oncology, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality care to help our patients overcome skin cancer and return to their normal lives.