Can a GP spot skin cancer?
A diagnosis of non-melanoma skin cancer will usually begin with a visit to a GP, who will examine your skin and decide whether you need further assessment by a specialist.
What is a skin cancer doctor called?
Dermatologists are experts in caring for the skin and have more experience diagnosing skin cancer than any other doctor. You can find a dermatologist by going to, Find a dermatologist.
Can a GP remove a skin cancer?
Most small skin cancers are removed by a GP or a dermatologist in their consulting rooms. A surgeon may treat more complex cases.
Should I see an oncologist for skin cancer?
If your skin cancer will require further treatment after removal, or if the skin cancer is located in an area that’s difficult to operate on, an oncologist may be the best option.
How long does it take for skin cancer to spread?
Melanoma can grow very quickly. It can become life-threatening in as little as 6 weeks and, if untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body. Melanoma can appear on skin not normally exposed to the sun. Nodular melanoma is a highly dangerous form of melanoma that looks different from common melanomas.
How urgent is skin cancer?
Your GP may refer you urgently, within 2 weeks, for squamous cell skin cancer. Basal cell skin cancers usually don’t need an urgent referral but you should still see a specialist within 18 weeks. Read a guide to NHS waiting times.
What’s worse basal cell or squamous?
Though not as common as basal cell (about one million new cases a year), squamous cell is more serious because it is likely to spread (metastasize).
What happens if you cut off skin cancer?
Sarnoff explains that if you cut off a primary melanoma yourself, melanoma cells can remain in the skin and spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body — all without your knowledge. A board-certified dermatologist would perform a biopsy on the tissue to be sure of any diagnosis.
Who will see me if I have suspected skin cancer?
Everyone with suspected skin cancer is seen by a member of one of these multidisciplinary teams. For a BCC that isn’t likely to come back, you might be seen by your GP if they are a member of the Local Hospital Skin Cancer MDT. Your GP may refer you to the Local Hospital Skin Cancer MDT if:
Can a GP refer you to a specialist for skin cancer?
Your GP might make an urgent referral to a specialist if they think you have a squamous cell cancer (SCC), or a rare type of skin cancer. You should be seen within 2 weeks if you have an urgent referral.
What is the difference between local and specialist skin cancer MDT?
A Local Hospital Skin Cancer MDT is likely to be in cancer units in district general hospitals. A Specialist Skin Cancer MDT is usually in larger hospitals that have cancer centres or plastic surgery centres. You may only see one specialist. But the team have got together with your test results and case notes to discuss the best treatment.
What are the types of skin cancer?
Elisa Mitchell, relations officer at Cancer Research UK, said: “There are different types of skin cancer including basal cell skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma and some other rare types but the most concerning type is melanoma.”
