SkinCancers
Skin cancer is the 6th most common form of cancer in the Singapore.
The two most common types are basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer. They usually form on the head, face, neck, hands and arms. Another type of skin cancer, melanoma, is more dangerous but less common.
Anyone can get skin cancer, but it is more common in people who:
- Spend a lot of time in the sun or have been sunburned
- Have light-colored skin, hair and eyes
- Have a family member with skin cancer
- Are over age 50
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is also known as BCC, rodent ulcer and basalioma. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer in humans. Luckily, this form of skin cancer is very rarely a threat to life.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is another common type of skin cancer. It is derived from
squamous cells, the flat cells that make up the outside layers of the skin, the epidermis. Invasive SCC
refers to cancer cells that have grown into the deeper layers of the skin, the dermis. Invasive SCC can rarely metastasize (spread to distant tissues) and may prove fatal.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Often the first sign of melanoma is a change in the size, shape, color or feel of a mole. Most melanomas have a black or black-blue area. Melanoma may also appear as a new mole. It may be black, abnormal or “ugly looking.”
The majority of skin cancer can be prevented by careful sun protection from an early age, and detected early by regular self skin examination.
Current treatments for primary skin cancer include:
- Excision surgery
- Curettage and diathermy/cautery
- Electrosurgery
- Cryotherapy
- Fluorouracil cream
- Imiquimod cream
- Photodynamic therapy
- Radiotherapy
Dr Lynn Chiam…
Dr Lynn Chiam graduated from the National University of Singapore and subsequently received her Membership of the Royal College of Physicians (Internal Medicine) United Kingdom. She completed her specialist training in dermatology...
Why choose Children & Adult Skin Clinic?
No two individuals are the same. Our treatments are customized to each individual’s unique skin type & needs.
Through consultation with our doctor, a thorough analysis will be undertaken to determine the ideal treatment methods for the best possible results.
