Expert Care for Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the abnormal, uncontrolled growth of skin cells, most commonly caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. It is one of the most common cancers worldwide, but when detected early, it is also among the most treatable.

At AIROC Hospitals, our dermato-oncology team offers comprehensive skin cancer care — from routine skin screenings and precise diagnostic evaluation to advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments — all tailored to each patient's specific type and stage of skin cancer.

Skin cancer can develop anywhere on the body but is most frequently found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, hands, and arms. While some forms grow slowly and rarely spread, others, such as melanoma, can be aggressive and spread quickly to other organs if not caught early. This makes regular skin checks and awareness of changes in moles or skin lesions essential.

At AIROC Hospitals, we are committed to helping patients protect their skin health through early detection, expert diagnosis, and personalized, compassionate treatment.

Types

Skin cancer is broadly classified into non-melanoma and melanoma types:

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) – The most common form of skin cancer, arising in the basal cells of the skin's outer layer. It grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) – Develops in the flat squamous cells and can grow deeper into the skin if untreated, occasionally spreading to nearby tissues.
• Melanoma – A less common but more aggressive form that develops in melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin. Melanoma can spread rapidly to lymph nodes and other organs if not detected early.
• Merkel Cell Carcinoma – A rare and highly aggressive skin cancer that originates in hormone-producing cells near nerve endings in the skin.
• Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma – A rare cancer that begins in the skin's immune cells (T-lymphocytes).

Skin cancers are further categorized by stage, based on tumor thickness, depth of invasion, and whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or distant sites — key factors guiding treatment decisions at AIROC Hospitals.

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms

Skin cancer often presents as a new or changing spot on the skin. Common warning signs include:

• A new growth, mole, or sore that doesn't heal
• A mole that changes in size, shape, or color
• Asymmetrical moles with irregular borders (uneven halves)
• Moles with multiple colors or shades
• A spot larger than a pencil eraser (about 6mm)
• Itching, tenderness, or bleeding from a skin lesion
• A shiny, waxy, or pearly bump on the skin
• A flat, scaly, reddish patch that may crust or bleed

The ABCDE rule — Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter, and Evolving appearance — is a useful guide for identifying suspicious moles that should be evaluated at AIROC Hospitals.

Causes and Risk Factors

Skin cancer develops when genetic mutations, often triggered by UV radiation, cause skin cells to grow uncontrollably. Key risk factors include:

• UV Exposure – Prolonged sun exposure and use of tanning beds significantly increase risk.
• Fair Skin – Individuals with light skin, hair, and eyes have less melanin protection and higher risk.
• History of Sunburns – Especially severe or blistering sunburns during childhood.
• Family or Personal History – A history of skin cancer or numerous/atypical moles increases risk.
• Weakened Immune System – Organ transplant recipients and individuals on immunosuppressive therapy face higher risk.
• Age – Risk increases with age due to cumulative sun exposure over time.
• Exposure to Certain Chemicals or Radiation – Such as arsenic or radiation therapy for other conditions.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

At AIROC Hospitals, our dermatologists and oncologists use a systematic approach to accurately diagnose skin cancer:

• Clinical Skin Examination – A thorough visual and physical evaluation of suspicious lesions and surrounding skin.
• Dermoscopy – Uses a specialized magnifying device to examine skin lesions in greater detail.
• Skin Biopsy – Removal of a tissue sample for microscopic examination to confirm cancer type and characteristics.
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – Used in melanoma and other cases to check whether cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Imaging Tests (CT, MRI, PET Scan) – Used for advanced cases to determine if cancer has spread to other organs.
• Molecular and Genetic Testing – Helps identify specific mutations that may guide targeted treatment options, particularly in melanoma.

Treatment

Treatment plans at AIROC Hospitals are customized based on the type, size, location, and stage of skin cancer. Options include:

• Surgical Excision – Removal of the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue; the primary treatment for most skin cancers.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery – A precise technique that removes cancerous tissue layer by layer, commonly used for BCC and SCC in cosmetically sensitive areas.
• Cryotherapy – Freezing technique used to destroy small, superficial skin cancers or precancerous lesions.
• Topical Therapy – Prescription creams or gels applied directly to superficial skin cancers.
• Radiation Therapy – Used when surgery isn't suitable or as an additional treatment after surgery.
• Chemotherapy – Used for advanced or metastatic skin cancers, either topically or systemically.
• Immunotherapy – Boosts the body's immune response to target and destroy cancer cells, particularly effective in advanced melanoma.
• Targeted Therapy – Drugs designed to attack specific genetic mutations found in certain skin cancers, especially melanoma.

Our multidisciplinary team at AIROC Hospitals — including dermatologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation and medical oncologists — collaborates closely to deliver effective, individualized care with an emphasis on cosmetic and functional outcomes.

Prevention and Risk Factors

Skin cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when proactive measures are taken. Recommended prevention strategies include:

• Use Sunscreen Daily – Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapplying every two hours when outdoors.
• Avoid Peak Sun Hours – Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.
• Wear Protective Clothing – Hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves can help shield skin from UV damage.
• Avoid Tanning Beds – Artificial UV exposure significantly increases skin cancer risk.
• Perform Regular Skin Self-Exams – Check your skin monthly for new or changing moles and spots.
• Schedule Routine Skin Screenings – Annual checks with a dermatologist are especially important for those with risk factors.
• Seek Shade – Whenever possible, especially during outdoor activities.

At AIROC Hospitals, we encourage everyone to practice sun-safe habits and undergo regular skin checks — early detection remains the most effective way to successfully treat skin cancer.

This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider at AIROC Hospitals for personalized diagnosis and treatment recommendations.