Skin cancer

[Annsandra13]

I’m new here, just trying to understand the difference between different non melanoma cancers and how the diagnose ?

[Hidden]

By far the most common type is BCC (basal cell carcinoma) which is sometimes called “rodent ulcer”. It almost never spreads but will slowly get bigger if untreated. Normally caused by long term sun exposure so usually on exposed areas in older, fair skinned people. Can be a bit awkward to treat if on the face. Less common is SCC (squamous cell carcinoma) which can be a bit more troublesome and can spread to lymph glands but usually doesn’t. Other types of non melanoma skin cancer are rare. Have a look at the British Association of Dermatology website for information sheets and advice.

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Sorry. Diagnosis! Ultimately this is by looking at it (or a sample) down the microscope (histology) but most can be diagnosed with reasonable confidence by an experienced doctor just looking at it.

[Annsandra13 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you so much for your response, it’s so kind of you!

I am wondering if it is better to going to a nhs clinic specialising in skin cancers rather than a general demonology department at our local hospital?

Kind regards

Ann

[Hidden in reply to Annsandra13]

People with possible skin cancer will be a common problem in any dermatology clinic. Bigger departments will have people who specialise more in skin cancer than, say rashes and other conditions but any dermatologist will be familiar with the common types and would refer you to a colleague if necessary. So if an opinion is needed somewhere convenient for you would be a good place tostart!

[Annsandra13 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you, that’s more or less what I am thinking, I have checked the profiles of a number of dermatologists in our area, to identify their specialisms, is it true that if your are referred urgently you are seen in 2 weeks?

I hope all is well with you?

Kind regards

Ann

[Hidden in reply to Annsandra13]

Which country do you live in? Your referral will be prioritised according to the information that the referrer provides. Sometimes a photo is sent as well to help with that. If the referrer described what sounds like a BCC there is less urgency as they grow very slowly and almost never spread. As a general rule, in the 4 UK NHSs urgent suspected cancers are seen as soon as possible, usually within a couple of weeks. There is a “10 working day” rule in some bits of the UK but some departments struggle to meet that for every patient.

[Annsandra13 in reply to Hidden]

We are in the UK, and our more local hospital doesn’t really specialise but of course would know what type it is , but I have found a consultant I would like her to see at Arrowpark hospital that have also a skin cancer clinic.

Thanks for your support and help, I have photos but not sure if any were taken when my daughter was seen by the community dermatologist at her doctors surgery.

X

[Hidden in reply to Annsandra13]

ok great. Good luck. I hope it all turns out ok.

[Annsandra13 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks again, all the best to you too.

Ann x