The Ultimate Guide to Skin Cancer Treatment in the UAE

Facing skin cancer can feel overwhelming, but in the UAE, you're not alone. Here, you'll discover a network of hospitals renowned for their expertise in skin cancer treatment, blending advanced medical technologies with compassionate care. What makes skin cancer treatment in the UAE unique? This guide explores the forefront of diagnostic capabilities and innovative treatment methods available across leading hospitals. From melanoma to basal cell carcinoma, each patient receives tailored care that prioritizes their individual needs and well-being. Wondering which hospitals in the UAE specialize in skin cancer treatment and how they differentiate their approach? Eager to learn about their commitment to early detection, minimally invasive procedures, and patient-centered care? Join us as we explore the compassionate world of skin cancer treatment in the UAE.

Symptoms of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer can show up in different ways. Here are signs to look out for:

1. New Growths or Sores: Keep an eye on any new spots or sores that don’t seem to go away. They might be an early sign of skin cancer.

2. Changes in Moles: If your moles start to change—like getting bigger, changing shape, or having different colours—get them checked out.

3. Asymmetry: Healthy moles usually look the same on both sides. If one half looks different from the other, it could be a sign of skin cancer.

4. Irregular Borders: Normal moles have smooth edges. If the edges are uneven or jagged, it's worth getting checked by a doctor.

5. Colour Changes: Moles or spots that have more than one colour—like brown, black, or even pink—should be looked at by a doctor.

6. Size: Pay attention to any new growths or moles that are bigger than a pencil eraser (about 1/4 inch or 6 millimetres).

7. Changes Over Time: Any changes in a mole or spot—whether it’s growing, itching, bleeding, or just looking different—should be checked out.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. It’s best to see a doctor as soon as possible. Catching skin cancer early can make treatment much easier.

Diagnosis of Skin Cancer  in the UAE

A. Thorough Skin Examination: 

When it comes to diagnosing skin cancer in the UAE, dermatologists start with a careful examination of your skin. They'll inspect closely for any unusual moles, lesions, or changes in existing skin growths. Using a tool called a dermatoscope, they magnify and illuminate these areas to get a better look, especially at pigmented lesions that might indicate skin cancer.

B. Biopsy and Detailed Analysis:

If during the examination they find something suspicious, like an irregular mole or lesion, they'll perform a biopsy. This involves taking a small sample of tissue from the affected area for further analysis. A pathologist then examines this tissue under a microscope to determine if cancer cells are present, what type they are, and how far they've spread. This step, called histopathological analysis, is crucial for accurately diagnosing the type and stage of skin cancer and planning the next steps in treatment.

C. Additional Tests and Consultations:

In cases where the cancer may have spread beyond the skin, additional tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be necessary. These tests help doctors understand the extent of the cancer and make informed decisions about treatment. Depending on the type and stage of skin cancer diagnosed, you may be referred to specialized oncologists, dermatologic oncologists, or plastic surgeons (C). They'll work together to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs and gives you the best chance for successful treatment.

After your initial treatment, regular follow-up visits are important. These visits allow your medical team to monitor your progress, check for any signs of cancer recurrence, and address any new skin concerns that may arise. This ongoing care is essential for managing skin cancer effectively and ensuring your long-term health and well-being.

Treatment Options for Skin Cancer Treatment in the UAE

1. Surgery:

a. Excision: This is the most common surgical procedure for removing skin cancers. During excision, the tumor along with a margin of surrounding healthy skin is surgically removed. The size of the margin depends on the type and location of the cancer.

b. Mohs Surgery: Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise technique used primarily for basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, especially those located in sensitive areas or with a high risk of recurrence. The procedure involves removing the cancer layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope immediately after removal. This process continues until no cancerous cells are detected, ensuring minimal removal of healthy tissue.

2. Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumours. It may be used as the primary treatment for skin cancers that are difficult to treat with surgery, or as adjuvant therapy after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Advanced techniques such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) allow for precise targeting of the tumour while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

3. Chemotherapy:

a. Topical Chemotherapy: Certain types of skin cancer, such as superficial basal cell carcinomas and actinic keratoses, can be treated with chemotherapy creams or ointments applied directly to the skin. These medications work by destroying cancer cells on the skin's surface.

b. Systemic Chemotherapy: For skin cancers that have spread beyond the skin or are aggressive, chemotherapy drugs may be administered orally or intravenously. These drugs travel through the bloodstream to reach cancer cells throughout the body, targeting and killing them.

4. Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy drugs harness the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. They work by either boosting the immune response or by blocking signals that cancer cells use to evade detection by the immune system. Immunotherapy has shown promising results in treating advanced melanoma and other types of skin cancer.

5. Targeted Therapy:

Targeted therapy involves using drugs that specifically target genetic mutations or abnormalities present in cancer cells. By targeting these specific molecular pathways involved in cancer growth and progression, targeted therapies can block the growth and spread of cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells. This approach is particularly effective in treating advanced melanoma and certain types of non-melanoma skin cancers.

6. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT):

Photodynamic therapy uses a combination of a light-sensitive drug (photosensitizer) and a specific wavelength of light to destroy cancer cells. The photosensitizer is applied to the skin and absorbed by the cancer cells. When exposed to light, the photosensitizer produces a form of oxygen that kills nearby cancer cells. PDT is often used to treat superficial skin cancers, actinic keratoses, and certain types of non-melanoma skin cancers.

7. Cryosurgery:

Cryosurgery, or cryotherapy, involves freezing cancer cells with liquid nitrogen. This freezing process destroys the cancer cells by forming ice crystals within them. Cryosurgery is commonly used to treat small, early-stage skin cancers, particularly those on the surface of the skin or in areas where surgical removal may be difficult or cosmetically sensitive.

These treatment options are available at major hospitals and specialized cancer centres throughout the UAE, particularly in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the type and stage of skin cancer, its location on the body, and the overall health of the patient. A multidisciplinary team of oncologists, dermatologists, and other specialists collaborates to develop a personalized treatment plan that maximizes the chances of successful outcomes while minimizing side effects and preserving the quality of life.

Top Hospitals for Skin Cancer Treatment in the UAE

1. King's College Hospital London

How can HealthTrip assist with your treatment?

If you're seeking Skin Cancer Treatment, let HealthTrip be your compass. We support you throughout your medical journey with the following:

The UAE is at the forefront of skin cancer treatment, offering modern facilities and expert care. Patients can expect a comprehensive approach to their treatment, supported by the latest advancements in dermatological care.