Skin cancer - Medical & surgical treatment options in Turkey

Skin cancer: What is it?

Skin cancer is a disease characterized by the abnormal, uncontrolled proliferation of skin cells. These mutations are mainly caused by UV radiation, but also by intrinsic (genetic) and extrinsic (environmental) factors.

Keratoses, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma are the most common forms of skin cancer. Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

With your health in mind, our expert dermatologists offer a complete skin assessment. Don't wait to make an appointment and benefit from an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Types of skin cancer

The different types of skin cancer include:

• Actinic keratoses (AK): These scaly, rough skin lesions are considered precancerous. They usually appear on areas of the body most exposed to the sun (face, neck, hands, forearms) in fair-skinned people over the age of 40. If left untreated, actinic keratoses can develop into squamous cell skin cancer.
• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC): This is the most common type of non-melanoma skin cancer. It often appears as a small, pearly, translucent or pink lesion. BCC develops slowly and tends to localize on the head and neck. Although rarely fatal, it can cause significant damage to surrounding tissue if not treated in time.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): This type of skin cancer develops from cells in the outer layer of the skin. It appears as a red, scaly, or crusty lesion. CEC can occur anywhere on the body, but is more common in sun-exposed areas. It can develop more rapidly and be more invasive than basal cell carcinoma.
• Melanoma: This is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It develops in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin (the pigment responsible for skin color). Melanomas can occur on healthy skin or from an existing mole. They are often asymmetrical, unevenly colored, with irregular edges, and larger than 6 mm in diameter.

Symptoms and early diagnosis of skin cancer

Early detection is essential for effective skin cancer treatment. It is recommended to regularly examine your skin using the ABCDE rule for melanoma:

• A for Asymmetry: one half does not match the other.
• B for Border: edges are irregular, blurred, or notched.
• C for Color: color is uneven or varies across the lesion.
• D for Diameter: diameter is greater than 6 mm.
• E for Evolution: size, shape, or color changes over time.

If you notice a suspicious mole or skin lesion, you should consult a dermatologist. Diagnosis is usually confirmed through a biopsy, where a tissue sample is taken and analyzed.

Skin cancer treatment options in Turkey

Skin cancer is a complex disease that requires individualized treatment. In Turkey, patients benefit from the latest medical expertise and a wide range of treatments to eradicate cancer cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

Surgery: the basic treatment

Surgery remains the most common treatment for skin cancer. It involves the removal of the tumor and a margin of healthy skin to minimize the risk of recurrence.

There are several surgical techniques, including:

• Simple excision.
• Mohs surgery (especially precise for complex tumors).
• Laser surgery.

The choice of surgical technique depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, its size and location, and the patient's general condition.

Alternative treatments

In some cases, other treatments may be considered:

• Cryotherapy: Destruction of cancer cells using cold.
• Anticancer creams: Local application of medicines to eliminate superficial lesions.
• Radiation therapy: Use of radiation to destroy cancer cells.
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT): Combination of photosensitizing drugs and light to destroy cancer cells.

The choice of the most appropriate treatment is made in close collaboration between the patient and the medical team, taking into account the individual characteristics of each case.

Process of skin cancer surgery

Surgery to remove a skin tumor involves several essential steps:

Diagnostic evaluation

The treatment of a skin tumor begins with a thorough diagnosis. The skin lesion in question will be examined by a dermatologist or oncologist, who may also perform a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Planning a treatment strategy

Once the diagnosis has been made, the surgeon will draw up a customized treatment plan. He takes into account the size, location and type of tumor to select the most appropriate surgical technique.

Tumor removal surgery

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic, which allows the patient to remain awake and unaffected by pain.

To ensure that all cancer cells are removed, the surgeon removes the cancerous tissue and a margin of healthy skin around it. To ensure that the cancer has been completely eliminated, further tests are then carried out on the excised tissue.

To promote healing and reduce scarring, the wound is then cosmetically closed using sutures, staples or other suitable techniques.

Side effects of skin cancer removal surgery

Although skin cancer removal surgery is usually painless and safe, some side effects may occur:

• Risk of infection at the surgical site.
• Scarring of the skin.
• Bleeding during or after surgery: In most cases, this can be controlled with additional pressure or stitches.
• Numbness or nerve damage (change in skin sensitivity).
• Fatigue.
• Edema.

Post-operative care and healing after skin tumor removal

Proper post-operative care is essential to ensure optimal healing and a speedy recovery after skin tumor removal.

In the first days following surgery, you may need assistance from a family member or friend with daily tasks until you regain your strength. It may take some time before you can fully resume your normal activities.

Follow your prescribed medications exactly as directed to manage pain, prevent infection, and reduce the risk of constipation. Contact your care team immediately if you notice any new or worsening symptoms.

Constipation is common after surgery, but there are safe ways to manage it. Consider adjusting your diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and using over-the-counter remedies if recommended. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking laxatives or other medications.

Success rate of skin cancer treatment in Turkey

Cutaneous basal cell carcinoma does not usually invade other organs of the body. Resulting in low rates (no more than 5%) of BCC spreading to other parts of the body.. However, for both BCC and ECC, considerable skin damage can sometimes occur if the tumor is left untreated.

In our partner clinics, 90% of non-melanoma skin cancer cases have been successfully treated. Subsequently, the success rate of this treatment in our partner hospitals and medical centers in Turkey is considered very high.

In addition, Turquie Santé strives to offer you the best melanoma and carcinoma treatment costs with the highest quality of service in Turkey. Costs include all cancer-related care, from diagnosis to treatment, follow-up and use of healthcare resources.