Medical Treatment for Skin Cancer
At Shire Doctors and Dentists, we offer a range of medical treatments for skin cancer, following the latest Australian Cancer Council guidelines. These treatments are primarily topical therapies designed to treat various skin cancers and sun damage effectively. Not all skin cancers can be treated with creams, and melanoma, in particular, requires surgical intervention. Our specialists will guide you through the most appropriate treatment options based on your diagnosis.
Topical Treatments for Skin Cancer
Some skin cancers, especially those in the early stages, can be treated effectively with topical treatments. These medications are generally applied at home and target abnormal skin cells while preserving healthy skin. The most suitable cream will depend on the specific type of skin cancer or skin damage you have. Our doctors will discuss the available options and create a tailored treatment plan for you.
Aldara Cream (Imiquimod)
Aldara cream is commonly prescribed to treat superficial skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and some sunspots (actinic keratosis). It works by stimulating the immune system to recognise and destroy abnormal skin cells.
What to Expect:
- Application: Aldara cream is applied at home to the affected area, typically for a few weeks.
- Side Effects: During treatment, you may experience redness, irritation, or weeping of the skin at the application site. These side effects usually subside after the treatment is completed.
- Cosmetic Results: Despite the temporary irritation, Aldara cream generally provides excellent cosmetic results, with the skin healing well after treatment.
Efudix Cream (5-Fluorouracil)
Efudix is a topical chemotherapy cream used to treat superficial skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma and actinic keratosis. It works by interfering with the DNA in abnormal skin cells, leading to cell destruction.
What to Expect:
- Application: The cream is applied to the affected area at home, typically for several weeks.
- Side Effects: The treatment can cause irritation, redness, and peeling of the skin, which is a sign that the medication is working to remove abnormal cells.
- Cosmetic Results: Once the side effects subside, the skin usually heals with minimal scarring, providing good cosmetic results.
Solaraze Gel (Diclofenac Sodium)
Solaraze gel is used to treat sunspots (actinic keratosis) and is an effective option for areas of skin damaged by sun exposure. It works by inhibiting the production of certain chemicals in abnormal cells, leading to their destruction.
What to Expect:
- Application: Solaraze is applied to the affected area at home, typically for several weeks.
- Side Effects: Solaraze is generally well-tolerated, with minimal discomfort. Some mild irritation or redness may occur during treatment.
- Cosmetic Results: Solaraze usually produces excellent cosmetic results, and the treated skin heals well after the course of treatment.
Picato Gel (Ingenol Mebutate)
Picato gel is an advanced treatment for multiple sunspots or areas of sun-damaged skin. It works by inducing cell death in abnormal skin cells and triggering an inflammatory response that targets any remaining atypical cells.
What to Expect:
- Application: Picato gel is applied for just three consecutive days, making it a convenient treatment option for patients with multiple sunspots.
- Side Effects: The gel can cause temporary inflammation, including redness, swelling, and discomfort, which usually clears up within 7-14 days after treatment.
- Cosmetic Results: The skin heals well with minimal scarring, and the treatment offers reduced downtime compared to other treatments, making it an excellent choice for broader areas of skin affected by sun damage.
Important Considerations
- Not all Skin Cancers can be treated with Creams: While topical treatments are effective for certain types of skin cancers and sunspots, melanoma and some other skin cancers require surgical intervention. Our doctors will evaluate your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
- Follow-Up Care: After starting treatment, regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is working as expected.
Why Choose Shire Doctors and Dentists for Skin Cancer Medical Treatment?
At Shire Doctors and Dentists, our team of experienced doctors follows the Australian Cancer Council guidelines and is committed to providing the best care for patients with skin cancer. We offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments, ensuring that all your skin cancer care needs are met in a professional, caring environment.
- Expert Care: Our doctors are highly trained in diagnosing and treating skin cancers according to the latest Australian guidelines.
- Comprehensive Treatment Options: We provide a full range of treatments, from topical therapies to surgical options, depending on your diagnosis.
- Convenient Location: Located in the heart of the Shire, we offer accessible care with minimal wait times.