Skin cancer
Basal cell carcinoma, melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are amongst the most frequent types of skin cancer. Skin cancer can present itself in many different ways. Basal cell carcinoma is konwn for its color, that is pearly translucency to fleshy. Other characteristics are superficial tiny blood vessels, and perhaps ulceration. The main characteristic, however, is translucency. Squamous cell carcinoma can be recognised as a crusted or scaly, red patch or bump. Often, squamous cell carcinomas are very rapidly growing tumors. A melanoma often appears as an asymmetrical pigmented area, with color variation and a irregular border. A melanoma is often bigger than 5 mm in diamter. UV-light is mainly responsible for all three types of skin cancer. Factors that improve the risk of getting skin cancer are therefore: sunny vacations, having an outdoor profession, doing recreation outside, and living near the equator. Another risk factor, however, are specific genes through which a high risk of melanoma is inherited. Therefore, a dermatologist will always inform whether melanoma has been diagnosded among members in the family.
Treatment of skin cancer
After the check for skin cancer has been performed and if you are diagnosed with skin cancer, there are several options for treatment. The treatment of skin cancer depends on the specific subtype of skin cancer see here for more information in Dutch. Most often, however, it is necessary that the skin cancer is excised. A benefit of excision is that a pathologist can determine whether the lesion is removed completely. The dermatologists that work at the Roosevelt Clinics are experienced dermato-surgeons and are very trained in removing skin cancer. After removal of a melanoma, the dermatologist will perform an extra excision around the scar. This will be done in compliance with the Dutch guidelines of melanoma treatment. In some rare cases, it is necessary to be referred to an academic medical centre.
Costs of check for skin cancer in the Roosevelt clinic
If you are referred to the dermatologist in the Roosevelt clinic by your dermatologist, your health insurance will cover the costs of the check for skin cancer. However, it is also possible to make an appointment without being referred by the general practitioner. In that case, you can find the costs of a total body check here. The dermatologist will inform you when he/she finds any skin lesions that might be suspectible. The suspected skin lesions can be removed in surgery and send to a pathologist. This procedure will bring additional costs, however. For a pricelist check here or ask your dermatologist what the cost will be. In most cases if treatment is necessary, it is advisable to get a referral.
Make an appointment with the dermatologist, click here.
