The skin is the largest organ of the human body. It protects the internal organs. However, it is also susceptible to cancer. There are two main categories of skin cancer, melanoma and carcinoma. In general, melanoma is rarer and spreads to other parts of the body. It often requires chemotherapy or radiation in addition to surgery to get rid of it. Carcinoma is much more common and very seldom spreads. It is also less aggressive and is treated more easily. The easiest treatment for carcinoma is surgery. In cases where the cancer is caught early enough, it can be completely removed. However, if the carcinoma has grown to cover large areas, surgery may not be your best option. Here are a few skin cancer treatments that can eradicate carcinoma without involving surgery.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy involves having high-energy rays directed at the areas of your skin affected by cancer. The energy is such that it kills the cancer cells. The dead cells may crust before falling off. Underneath these cells will be new, healthy skin. You will require multiple treatments to ensure all the cancer cells are killed. During treatments, your skin may become red and sensitive. After treatments, it will be important to avoid sun exposure to the new skin cells.
Imiquimod Cream
If you have been diligent in using sunscreen and performing routine skin inspections the odds are good that you will also seek out a doctor if you notice any changes. Early detection not only increases the successful eradication of skin carcinomas, it also makes it easier to treat. One simple treatment that can be very effective with early detection is Imiquimod cream. Your dermatologist will prescribe this cream you apply to the affected area. The cream will stimulate your own immune system to attack the cancer cells and kill them. It is important that you follow the doctor's directions as to how long to leave the cream on and how often to apply it each day. For the best results, you will need to keep applying the cream as directed even after all visible signs of the cancer are gone.
While any type of cancer is serious and scary, basal and squamous cell carcinomas can be completely cured if you catch them early enough and follow all treatments your doctor advises you to use. You will also need to learn about the different ways to reduce your risk of the cancer coming back.
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