skin cancer
Early detection and effective treatment
Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent its spread and significantly increase the chances of a cure. Regular skin checks and screenings are therefore particularly important, especially if new, changing, or unusual skin changes are noticed.
Why early detection of skin cancer is important
If detected early, skin cancer can usually be treated effectively. A professional examination is crucial for the timely detection of serious conditions in cases of suspicious moles, non-healing wounds, or new skin changes.
Services for skin cancer prevention
Table of Contents
- What is skin cancer?
- Causes & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Warning Signs
- ABCDE rule for self-monitoring
- Diagnostics at the dermatologist
- Treatment options
- forecast
- Prevention
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer encompasses various types of tumors that originate from different skin cells. A distinction is made between:
Melanoma (black skin cancer)
- most aggressive form of skin cancer
- arises from pigment-producing cells
- can metastasize early
- requires very early diagnosis
Basal cell carcinoma (basalioma) - "white skin cancer"
- most common form of skin cancer
- grows locally destructively
- It almost never metastasizes
Squamous cell carcinoma (spinal carcinoma)
- It often develops on UV-damaged skin
- In rare cases, it can metastasize.
- Early detection leads to excellent treatment
2. Causes & Risk Factors
2. Causes & Risk Factors
UV radiation is the most important trigger for skin cancer.
Other risk factors:
- light skin type
- many or atypical moles
- Sunburns in childhood/adolescence
- immunodeficiency
- genetic predisposition
- occupational UV exposure
INFOBOX: Did you know?
The skin stores every instance of UV damage for decades. Every sunburn increases the risk of developing skin cancer later in life.
3. Symptoms & Warning Signs
3. Symptoms & Warning Signs
Changes in the skin should always be taken seriously.
Typical warning signs of melanoma
- asymmetrical shape
- irregular edges
- various colors
- rapid growth
- Bleeding or oozing
Signs of a basal cell carcinoma
- pearly, shiny knot
- visible small blood vessels
- poorly healing wound
Signs of a squamous cell carcinoma
- horny, scaly areas
- hard, growing nodules
4. The ABCDE rule – simple self-check
4. The ABCDE rule – simple self-check
- During mole checks, we also explain which signs (color, shape, etc.) to look for during self-examination. See also the ABCDE rule.
Note: Any change in a mole should be examined by a doctor.
5. Diagnostics at the dermatologist
5. Diagnostics at the dermatologist
Dermoscopy (epiluminescence microscopy)
High-resolution, painless and highly reliable fine structure analysis of the skin.
Digital progress documentation
Conspicuous moles are photographed and compared over time.
Tissue sample (biopsy)
It definitively confirms the diagnosis and enables targeted therapy planning.
6. Treatment options
6. Treatment options
Surgical removal
Standard therapy for most types of skin cancer.
Minimally invasive procedures
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- laser treatment
Aftercare
Regular skin checks are especially important after a skin cancer diagnosis.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Skin cancer that is detected early has very good chances of being cured.
- Melanomas → close monitoring necessary
- Basal cell carcinomas / Squamous cell carcinomas → very good prognosis with early treatment
8. Prevention
8. Prevention
- daily sunscreen (SPF 50)
- Avoid midday sun
- no tanning beds
- Check your skin yourself monthly (ABCDE rule)
- Mole check at the dermatologist
9. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
9. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Does the examination hurt?
No, dermatoscopy is completely painless.
How fast does skin cancer grow?
Melanomas can change within a few weeks.
When do I need to see a doctor?
For every new or changed mole, or if there is any uncertainty.