Early detection and treatment of skin cancer

The most deadly but less common form of skin cancer, melanoma is now the most common cancer found in women between the ages 25 to 29 and is the second only to breast cancer in women of ages between 30 to 34. It is believed that increased sun exposure, along with a decreased ozone layer are major causes of the increased incidence of skin cancers. Skin cancer is a highly preventable disease and many are cured if diagnosed early in its development. Surgery continues to be the mainstay for patients with an early diagnosis. Other conventional therapies, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy are progressing slowly and attention is being shifted towards combination therapy and other novel approaches. This article is aimed to update the knowledge of the reader about the types of skin cancers and to discuss the current treatment options available. [Turk J Cancer 2002;32(4):129-137]