What is skin cancer?
The most frequent types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Skin cancer can be present in many forms. Classically basal cell carcinoma have pearly translucency to fleshy color, tiny blood vessels on the surface, and sometime ulceration which can be characteristics. The key term is translucency. Squamous cell carcinoma commonly presents as a red, crusted, or scaly patch or bump. Often a very rapid growing tumour. The common appearance of melanoma is an asymmetrical pigmented area, with an irregular border, colorvariation, and often greater than 5 mm diameter. All three types of skin cancer are namely caused by UV-light (sun light). Therefor risk factors for the development of skin cancer are: sun vacations, outside professional, recreation/sports outside, living near the equator with a fair skin and sun tanning beds. Also, melanoma can be inherited so the dermatologist will always ask if melanoma runs in the family.
How is skin cancer treated?
The treatment is depending on the type of cancer. See for more information in Dutch. Some basal cell carcinomas can be treated with a topical cream. However most of the time, the skin cancer must be excised. The advantage of excision is that the pathologist can check under the microscope whether the skin cancer is completely removed. The dermatologists form the Roosevelt clinic are trained and experienced dermato-surgeons. When a melanoma is removed an additional excision will be performed around the scar, according to the Dutch guidelines of melanoma treatment. In exceptional cases referral to an academic center is necessary.
What are the costs for skin cancer check in the Roosevelt clinic?
If your general practitioner is referring you to the Roosevelt clinic, the costs are covered by your health care insurance. You can also make an appointment without a referral from your general practitioner. You can find the cost for a total body check here. When the dermatologist observes some suspected skin lesions he/she will let you know. Additionally the lesions can be surgically removed and send to a pathologist. This procedure will have additional costs. 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.