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Types of Skin Cancer in New Zealand
In New Zealand, there are three primary types of skin cancer, classified based on the skin cells from which they originate: Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Malignant Melanoma. Additionally, there has been an increase in the occurrence of less common skin cancers, including Merkel Cell Carcinoma, Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma, and Sarcomatoid Carcinoma.
Self-Examination and Early Detection
Regular self-examination of your skin is crucial in identifying any changes or signs of skin cancer. It is important not to overlook a lesion simply because it is painless. If you or someone close to you notices any suspicious changes, it is advisable to consult an experienced, accredited skin cancer doctor or dermatologist for further evaluation.
Risk Factors for Skin Cancer
The appearance of each type of skin cancer can vary, and they tend to develop in specific areas of the body. Key factors that may increase the risk of developing skin cancer include excessive UV exposure, smoking, viral infections, medications, exposure to chemicals and radiation, as well as autoimmune diseases and genetic conditions.
Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, and the easiest to treat because it rarely spreads. BCC is generally characterized by its raised red or pearly appearance. It usually occurs on sun exposed areas of the face, neck and upper back. In most cases, the cancerous tissue is removed by either freezing with liquid nitrogen (superficial) or cutting out the invasive lesion. More>>
Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer. It is often as easy to treat as basal cell cancer. However, squamous cell cancer is more likely to spread to other areas, like the skeleton, lymph and liver. SCC is usually characterized by a fast growing scaly or ulcerated lump that frequently appears on the face, scalp, neck, forearms, hands and shins. More>>
Malignant Melanoma is the most dangerous kind of skin cancer because it may spread quickly through lymph, blood or nerve tissues, to other organs. If caught early, the prognosis is very good. There are different types of melanoma that can involve the skin, eye and nailbed. Superficial spreading type melanoma of the skin usually appears to be asymmetric, uneven borders, patchy dark colors and evolving. More>>
Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that often metastasizes to other parts of the body. It is more common in those that are immune suppressed due to systemic drugs, organ transplants, HIV infection and haematological malignancies. MCC usually presents as a rapidly enlarging, solitary, irregular red nodule. It is often similar in appearance to other more common skin cancers such as BCC but grows much more quickly.
Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma is associated with blood cancer. Mycosis fungoides is the most common type of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. This type tends to worsen slowly over time and may initially look like a skin rash, eczema or psoriasis. Due to recent advances in treatment, many people diagnosed with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma live normal lives.
Also see an Online Calculator that has been developed by the Melanoma Institute Australia (‘MIA’), based on a published risk prediction models (see References). It has been designed for use by clinicians, to guide discussions with patients about sun protection habits and skin surveillance for melanoma, for those who have not had a previous primary melanoma. As stated by MIA, the Calculator does not replace the doctors' assessment or advice. Melanoma Risk Assessment Tool
Lesion-Directed Dermoscopic Examination
We offer a Lesion-Directed Examination that involves the dermoscopic assessment and imaging of 1-3 specific lesions of concern and formulation of a management plan to address your concerns.
Appointment takes about 20 min with an accredited skin cancer doctor and cryotherapy can be provided on the day.
If any lesions need to be removed, we'll arrange further management at a later date.
Full Body Skin Cancer Examination
In those patients with a confirmed history of skin cancers, we are able to offer post-treatment follow-up and long-term surveillance. This full body skin cancer examination takes about 40-50min and is performed by a registered skin cancer nurse in Levin only. The diagnoses and final reports are authorized by an accredited skin cancer doctor.
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