Dermatology | Csalogány Medical Center

Dermato-oncology examinations

We welcome you to our office with a full examination of changes on the skin surface and a detailed treatment plan, as well as advice.

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Briefly about dermato-oncology

Cutaneous oncology (also known as dermato-oncology) is the branch of medicine that specializes in the study and treatment of skin cancers. This area deals with skin tumors, including melanoma, skin cancer and other rare skin tumors. Dermato-oncology is an extremely important medical field, as skin tumors are becoming more common and can be serious.

Timely recognition and treatment are key to improving the outcome of the disease. Our specialists with decades of experience, the highest scientific qualification and an empathetic, friendly environment await you by examining all skin lesions.

Examination process

1 Diagnosis

In the first step, our dermatologists collect detailed information about sun exposure, previously removed growths, skin tumors in the family, comorbidities, and taken medications. After that, moles and skin growths are examined, for which a dermoscope, a handheld dermatological microscope is also used. In justified cases, a skin biopsy may also be necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis.

2 Treatment plan

Moles and skin growths that show certain changes or are in disturbing places are often surgically removed. In such cases, the surgical excision is performed after local anesthesia, and then we either operate using a sutureless technique or, if necessary, sutures are inserted into the skin. After that, the removed specimen is sent for a histological examination, where a pathologist establishes the histological diagnosis. Certain lesions, such as solakeratoses, can be completely treated with liquid nitrogen freezing treatment, this way avoiding subsequent surgery. In the case of benign growths, removal can also be done with electrosurgery or with an extremely gentle, modern plasma-based device with excellent aesthetic results.

3 Check-up examination

During the check-up visit, stitches can be removed, the surgical area checked, and histological findings discussed. Periodically, at least annually, a full-body mole screening by a dermatologist is also necessary.

TYPES OF SKIN CANCER AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Melanoma

Melanoma is the most dreaded skin tumor, as without proper treatment it can be lead to death. It can also develop among young adults, especially women. Genetic and environmental factors also play a role in its development, which is why sun protection and regular mole screening are very important in its prevention. Our goal during the examination is to recognize the tumor at the earliest possible stage, since then there is a high chance that metastasis can be avoided and the disease can be fully cured. In most cases, it is recommended to take part in a mole screening every year. If someone or someone in their family has already had a malignant skin tumor, or has a lot of moles and fair skin that is prone to sunburn, we recommend a mole check every six months, and it is especially important to apply for a dermatological consultation if the patient experiences a change, irritation, or bleeding of a mole.

Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common malignant disease in Caucasians. Fortunately, its clinical behavior is not particularly aggressive, since the formation of metastases and their spread in the body only occur very rarely. Perhaps this is the reason why it often receives less attention than expected, even though if it is not treated properly, the recurrence of the tumor is certain. Sometimes even establishing a diagnosis is difficult, as the tumor is often not noticeable to the untrained eye. However, the possibility of a basal cell carcinoma must be ruled out in the case of a long-standing, non-healing wound in any part of the body. Those who only occasionally stay outdoors, but then experience sunburn are at the highest risk of the development of basal cell carcinoma.

There are a number of very effective solutions available for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma, but it is only possible to navigate among them with great skill. The conditions for oncologically correct and aesthetically optimal care are given in our clinic.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma mainly develops when a people spends a lot of time in the sun throughout their life, even continuously from Spring to Autumn, be it work or leisure activities. Although it develops much less often than basal cell carcinoma, it is much more dangerous due to its tendency to metastasize. Establishing a diagnosis is not easy in all cases, and the appropriate selection of treatment also requires skill. A special group is made up of those undergoing immunosuppressive treatment for some reason, in whom this symptom develops significantly more often and the course of the disease is also faster.

Solar keratosis

Solar keratosis is a scaly, sometimes inflamed skin lesion that is a precursor to squamous cell carcinoma. We often notice it with advancing age on skin areas exposed to the sun throughout our lives: on the face, forehead, ears, nose, and if someone starts balding early, then on the top of the head. Although it is not yet malignant, it can turn into a tumor without treatment, which is significantly more difficult to treat.