Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. Every year, millions of people are diagnosed and face the challenges that come with managing this condition. Early detection is very important because it makes treatment more successful. At the same time, new treatments are giving patients more hope and better options for care.
This article will explain some of the latest advancements in treating skin cancer, including Mohs surgery. By learning these new skin cancer treatment options, patients and their families can feel more informed during their journey.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is known to be one of the most precise and effective ways to treat some types of skin cancer. This is especially the case for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It was created by Dr. Frederic E. Mohs in the 1930s, and since then, the method has been improved many times. It is often chosen to treat visible, recurring, or high-risk tumors.
Why Mohs Surgery is Unique
Mohs surgery is different from regular surgery, because it is done with great precision and a unique technique.
This is what happens during the procedure:
- The surgeon removes very thin layers of tissue where cancer is found.
- Each layer is checked under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
- This process is repeated until no more cancer cells are found.
This step-by-step method helps to remove all the cancer while keeping as much healthy tissue as possible. This is very important for areas like the face, hands, or other parts of the body where appearance matters.
Benefits of Mohs Surgery
Here are some of the top benefits of Mohs surgery:
- High Cure Rate: Mohs surgery offers a success rate of up to 99 percent for primary (new) skin cancers and 94 percent for recurrent cases.
- Minimally Invasive: Mohs surgery is minimally invasive and reduces scarring.
- Quick Results: Patients often receive a diagnosis and treatment within a single session.
Board-certified Mohs surgeons, such as Dr. T.J. Giuffrida, undergo years of training to perform this intricate procedure. Patients who choose Mohs surgery benefit from its precision. They can also often leave the office cancer-free by the end of their visit.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is becoming an important treatment for advanced stages of skin cancer. It is different from other treatments because it uses the body’s own immune system to fight cancer.
One of the latest advancements in this field is the use of checkpoint inhibitors, like pembrolizumab. These medicines work by stopping certain proteins, such as PD-1, that help cancer cells hide from the immune system. For people with melanoma, immunotherapy has made a big difference. It gives hope to patients who once had very few treatment options. This method has also shown promising results that can last a long time.
Traditional chemotherapy only targets cancer cells. By contrast, immunotherapy trains the immune system to keep fighting even after the treatment is finished.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is an exciting new way to treat skin cancer. It works by focusing on specific parts of cancer cells to stop tumors from growing and spreading. For example, some drugs are made to target melanoma cells with a change called the BRAF mutation.
Unlike treatments like chemotherapy, targeted therapies usually cause fewer side effects. That makes it easier for patients to handle. Some recent research has combined targeted therapy with other treatments to make care even more effective.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
PDT is a treatment that uses a special light and a medicine to destroy cancer cells. The treatment uses a medicine called a photosensitizing agent. It is either put on the skin as a cream or given as an injection. Once the medicine is ready, it is activated by a specific type of light. This process targets cancer cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
PDT is especially useful for treating early-stage skin cancers or pre-cancerous spots. It is a great choice for patients who want to avoid surgery and prefer a non-invasive treatment.
Artificial Intelligence in Skin Cancer Detection
Artificial intelligence, or AI, is becoming an important tool for finding skin cancer early. It is not a treatment, but early detection can lead to better results. AI systems look at pictures of moles and skin spots to check if cancer might be present. These tools are very helpful in spotting melanoma at an early stage, so that patients can start treatment sooner.
AI does not take the place of a dermatologist. However, it supports doctors by giving them more information to make better decisions.
The Importance of Expert Care
With so many treatments available, it is very important for skin cancer patients to get care from skilled doctors. These professionals not only provide treatments but also help patients understand their diagnosis. They guide patients in choosing the best treatment option for their specific needs.
One such expert is Dr. T.J. Giuffrida, a board-certified Mohs surgeon serving patients at the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center. With years of experience and a patient-focused approach, Dr. Giuffrida ensures that every patient receives world-class care.
New Skin Cancer Treatments in Miami, FL
New skin cancer treatment options continue to emerge. We see groundbreaking advancements like Mohs surgery, immunotherapy, and artificial intelligence. These innovations provide patients with more options than ever before. They help improve outcomes while reducing impacts on their everyday lives.
Are you or a loved one seeking new skin cancer treatment from an expert near you? Consider trusting the knowledge and dedication offered by Dr. T.J. Giuffrida at the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center. For more information, call us at (305) 461-2000 or request a consultation today.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/13312-mohs-surgery
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11582-immunotherapy
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/photodynamic-therapy/about/pac-20385027
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cancer-treatment/about/pac-20393344
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/podcasts/cancer-advances/ai-supported-mammography
