There a in general 3 types of skin cancer if which Basal cell cancer is the most frequent (80% of all skin cancers), Squamous cell carcinoma (16% of all skin cancers), and Melanoma (in only 4% of skin cancers). In general skin cancers have a very good prognosis as they can be identified early, however, in advanced stages of squamous cell carcinoma the cancer can be metastatic (in 3-10% of cases) and this is even higher in more advanced melanomas ((if the lesion is bigger than 1.5mm Breslow thickness). For this reason melanomas account (despite that they form only 4% of all skin cancers) for 65% skin cancer related deaths.

Causes

Extensive cumulative sunlight exposure, white skin, many nevi, a family history of skin cancer, skin cancer in the past.

Symptoms

A new spot or mole on the ski, changes in size shape or colour of an existing skin lesion, an itching or bleeding or painful/ tender skin lesion, a red rough or scaly spot or shiny bump on top of the skin. This can be anywhere, but predominantly of areas that are more exposed to sunlight (face/neck, arms and legs.

Diagnostics

Dermoscopy (looking at the lesion through a magnifying lens and a light source near the skin) and taking a biopsy of the skin lesion.

Treatment

The main treatment of skin cancer is surgical excision of the skin lesion with a good margin, which is most successful when the skin cancer is removed in an early stage (before having a chance to spread in the body).

Risks of the surgery

Wound infection, a less nice scar reaction (depending on the location and the amount of skin being removed), hematoma/bleeding (<1%), a local recurrence when not being removed completely.

Why chose Professor Guido Mannaerts MD PhD

He is a Netherlands board certified oncological surgeon with a broad experience in skin and especially melanoma surgery.
As being an Adjunct Professor at the UAE University and a broad research background Professor Guido is aiming for state of the art surgical care using the latest techniques.
His pleasant, honest, patient-centred care and being committed to achieve the best results for you makes you feel being treated like a family expert.