Skin Cancer: An Issue of Oncology Clinics

The cancer that arises from the skin is termed as skin cancer. It occurs due to the development of abnormal cells which can invade or spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma, basal-cell skin cancer and squamous-cell skin cancer are the primary types of skin cancers. Basal-cell carcinomas are those that appear on the sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly the face. They rarely metastasize and are easily treated with radiation or surgery. Squamous-cell skin cancer metastasizes. Melanomas are the rarest of all skin cancers but frequently metastasize. They can potentially cause death once they spread. Ulcering of the skin, changes in existing moles, patch on skin, enlargement of mole, etc. are some of the signs of skin cancer. It can be diagnosed through a biopsy, histopathological examination, dermoscopy, sonography, etc. The treatment of skin cancer is determined by an assessment of the location of the tumor, specific type of cancer, age and whether it is a primary cancer or a recurrence. Melanomas usually respond poorly to radiation or chemotherapy. Radiation therapy, topical chemotherapy, cryotherapy, electrodesiccation and curettage, photodynamic therapy, Mohs surgery, etc. are some of the strategies in the treatment of skin cancer. This book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to skin cancer. It brings forth some of the most innovative concepts and elucidates the unexplored aspects of oncology. It aims to equip students and experts with the advanced topics and upcoming concepts in this domain.