Skin Cancer
Overview
Expert Skin Cancer Care, Close to Home
The skin is the largest organ in the body. It protects the body from germs, covers internal organs, and regulates temperature. There are two main layers of the skin: the epidermis and the dermis. The epidermis forms the outer layer of the skin whereas the dermis is the layer beneath the epidermis. Skin cancer tends to form in the epidermis. At Texas Oncology, we are here to provide trusted expertise, advanced treatments, and individualized care every step of the way.
Diagnosis
Skin Cancer Diagnosis at Texas Oncology
Texas Oncology specialists are equipped to diagnose skin cancer and may use the following tests and exams:
Physical exam
During this exam, a provider looks at suspicious lesions or changes in moles. They may also inquire about your personal and family history of skin cancer, sun exposure, and other risk factors.
Biopsy
A small tissue sample is removed from the suspicious area of skin and examined under the microscope for cancerous cells.
Treatment
Treatments for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer treatment is not one size fits all. That is why we personalize your treatment plan based on factors like age, medical history, general health, and treatment goals. Treatment for skin cancer may involve the following:
Non-melanoma skin cancer treatment
(basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma)
For advanced basal cell carcinoma, targeted therapies that inhibit the Hedgehog pathway can be effective. These include drugs Erivedge (vismodegib) and Odomzo (sonidegib). Immunotherapy can also be used. Libtayo (cemiplimab-rwlc) is an immunotherapy drug approved to treat advanced basal cell carcinomas.
For advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, immunotherapy drugs are often used for treatment including Libtayo (cemiplimab-rwlc), Keytruda (pembrolizumab), and Unloxcyt (cosibelimab-ipdl). Chemotherapy drugs can also be an option for these patients.
Melanoma skin cancer treatment
Surgery
Surgery may be needed to remove the cancer completely.
Immunotherapy
This therapy uses medicines to stimulate a person’s immune system to better recognize and attack cancer cells.
Targeted therapy drugs
Targeted therapy drugs work by targeting specific genetic mutations to stop or slow the growth of cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medications to kill cancer cells. It can be taken orally as a pill or injected into the vein.
Radiation therapy
Using high-energy X-rays, radiation therapy works to kill cancer cells by damaging their DNA. This prevents cancerous cells from reproducing and growing.
Find Care
Why Choose Texas Oncology for Skin Cancer Care
Our team of oncologists is dedicated to your health and well-being. When you come to us for care, you will find:
Trusted expertise
Our specialists trained at leading institutions across the country. They bring their extensive knowledge and experience to each patient.
Personalized attention
With our care team, you receive an individualized evaluation and care plan. We are with you and your loved ones at every step, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.
Experts close to home
We make it as easy as possible to access the care you need. With locations across the state, you are likely to find a provider near where you live and work.
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Clinical Trials
Clinical Trials
Texas Oncology is a leader in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials in Texas, paving the way for new breakthroughs in cancer care.