Skin Cancer Overview
An Increasingly Common Condition
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of the cells in the skin. It is the most common type of cancer, and the number of cases is increasing each year.
There are three main types of skin cancer (carcinoma):
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Melanoma
Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are less serious than melanoma. All skin cancers can become serious, though. Almost all skin cancers can be cured if we find and treat them early. So, it is important to see your doctor if you notice changes in your skin.
Most skin cancers are basal cell carcinomas. They are slow growing and usually do not spread to other parts of the body. They often affect the head, neck, back, chest or shoulders – places that have been exposed to the sun. The nose is the most common site. It may bleed if the area is bumped.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer. It may spread to other parts of the body, but it rarely does so.
Melanoma is the least common form of skin cancer, but it is the most serious. Melanoma can grow and spread rapidly to other organs, such as the liver, lungs or brain. Melanoma can be cured if it is found and treated early.
The skin cancer specialists at The University of Kansas Cancer Center are leaders in the field. They work as a team to provide you with the latest advances in prevention, diagnosis, treatment and resources.
Why You Should Choose The University of Kansas Cancer Center
Experience
If you have skin cancer, you will find the leading specialists you need at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. Our interdisciplinary team of oncologists and plastic surgeons have years of experience treating hundreds of patients with skin cancer.
Academic Approach
Because we are an academic center, we offer some of the region's most advanced cancer treatments. For example, we are offering a very aggressive melanoma treatment option that is available in only a few centers in the country. We use state-of-the-art techniques and technologies to improve patient outcomes and reduce side effects. We also use the latest findings in cancer research.
Community
Our staff also are accustomed to working with community health care providers. In many cases, you can receive some of your treatment near your own home in coordination with the staff at The University of Kansas Cancer Center.
Care Coordination
Each person is unique, so we tailor your care to your personal needs. This means doctors, nurses and other staff work closely together. They discuss every patient’s treatment as a team to stay up to date on your care and treatment.
Clinical Trials
We are part of many national clinical trials on cancer treatment. So, you benefit from our staff’s exposure to the latest options. You also may be able to take part in a clinical trial for melanoma during your treatment.
To Make an Appointment:
Call: 913.588.1227
Toll free call: 800.332.6048
Referring Physicians:
Call: 913.588.5862
Toll free call: 877.588.5862