Skin Cancer

Because our skin protects us from the outside world, it is prone to wear and tear. In particular, the changes associated with sun damage and UV exposure can lead to a number of problems. As well as the ageing process, sunlight can change the cells in the skin to produce a number of skin tumours. The commonest are as follows.

Basal Cell Carcinomas (BCCs) are the commonest of all cancers in the UK, affecting mainly mature patients, and are caused, in the main, by sun exposure over a long period. Typically patients will have skin that tolerates the sun only poorly, and as such do not see themselves as ‘sun worshipers’. BCCs are usually found on sun exposed areas such as the face and neck, but are not limited to these areas. They are slow growing, often present for months or years, and relatively simple to remove whilst small. As they grow they eventually grow deeply, when they can be harder to remove. It is very rare for them to spread around the body as other cancers do.

Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs) fall into a similar category to BCCs; they are most commonly found in those of 50 or older, in sun exposed areas. They are, however, more aggressive than BCCs and can spread to the lymph glands – albeit unusually. Once again, they are best treated early when surgery is simple.

Malignant Melanoma is a cancer of the cells that help to tan the skin. In contrast to the above two skin cancers, Melanoma affects younger patients as well as those more senior. The main signs are of a mole that is growing, changing colour (particularly to a variegated pattern), itching and bleeding. If you are concerned about any such moles you should see your doctor for advice. Mr Price carries out surgery to treat melanoma using a variety of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery techniques.

More about melanoma can be found here.

If you are concerned you may have any skin cancer, you should seek medical advice. If you wish Mr Price to be involved in your care, please either ask your Doctor to write to him, or make an appointment for a consultation.
To make an appointment to discuss surgery for Skin Cancer in Cambridge or Peterborough, please contact Mr Price’s secretary.