Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer and is predominantly caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Brachytherapy is a non-invasive cancer treatment available that offers superior results.
Skin cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the United States, originating in the outermost layer of skin known as the epidermis. It is predominantly caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, whether from sunlight or artificial sources such as tanning beds. Nonetheless, skin cancer can manifest in areas of the body that may not have been heavily exposed to UV light.
There are two main categories of skin cancer: Melanoma and Non-melanoma skin cancers.
As you prepare for your initial appointment, please take the time to review this essential information regarding skin cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, staging, and treatment options. At El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers, we are here to assist you and your family in making informed treatment decisions. Throughout this journey, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to effectively manage your cancer while continuing your daily activities.
Understanding the specific type of skin cancer you have is crucial, as it will impact your treatment options. Most skin cancers develop on areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the head, face, neck, hands, and arms; however, they can also occur in areas shielded from sunlight.
There are three primary types of skin cancers under the two main categories:
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma represent the two most common forms of skin cancer. These cancers typically arise in sun-exposed regions, including the head, face, neck, hands, and arms.
BCCs are characterized by abnormal and uncontrolled growths that develop in the basal cells, the cells located in the lowest layer of the epidermis. These tumors often appear in sun-exposed areas and may manifest as open sores, red patches, shiny bumps, pink growths, or scars. While BCCs grow slowly and rarely metastasize to other parts of the body, they can invade surrounding tissues if left untreated, potentially affecting bones and other structures beneath the skin.
SCC is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells occurring predominantly in areas of sun exposure, mainly within the upper layers of the epidermis. Common locations include the rim of the ear, lower lip, face, balding scalp, neck, hands, arms, and legs. However, SCC can also occur in regions not typically exposed to sunlight, such as the mouth and genital areas. Symptoms may include scaly red patches, open sores, elevated growths with central depressions, or warts. Though seldom life-threatening, untreated SCC can spread to lymph nodes and internal organs, leading to serious complications.
If cancer spreads from its original site to another part of the body, the growth will still bear the same name as the primary tumor, regardless of where it has spread.
Melanoma, while significantly less common than BCC and SCC, is the deadliest form of skin cancer and its incidence has been increasing annually. It poses a greater risk of metastasis if not detected early. In the past three decades, the percentage of individuals developing melanoma has more than doubled in the United States. However, if identified and treated promptly, melanoma is often curable. If left untreated, it can progress and spread to other areas of the body, complicating treatment.
Melanoma originates in melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin and are found between the dermis and epidermis. These tumors often resemble moles, and some may develop from existing moles.
The growth of melanoma is triggered when UV radiation induces genetic mutations in skin cells, leading to uncontrolled cell multiplication that forms malignant tumors. While most melanomas are black or brown, they can also be skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue, or white.
Melanomas can develop anywhere on the skin; however, they are more frequently found on the trunk (chest and back) in men and on the legs in women. Other common areas include the neck and face.
It’s essential to stay vigilant. If you observe new spots on your skin or notice changes in existing moles, make sure to inform your doctor or dermatologist. We provide resources, including photos, to help you identify potential signs of cancerous moles, but it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough examination and perform a biopsy if necessary.
Patients in Merced, Madera, Atwater, Los Banos, and surrounding Central Valley communities can receive skin cancer evaluation and care closer to home at El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers. If you are looking for a Skin Cancer Clinic, Central Valley, CA, patients can access without traveling far. Our team is here to support you with compassionate, personalized care.
We provide Skin Cancer Treatment Merced CA patients and their families can access in a local setting, with care focused on timely evaluation, clear communication, and treatment planning based on each patient’s needs. Patients looking for skin cancer treatment in Madera, CA, can also turn to our team for care close to home. You can also meet with a Skin Cancer Doctor Merced California patients trust when they want local evaluation and guidance, including those searching for Skin Cancer Treatment near Merced.
3303 M Street
Merced, CA 95348
Getting care close to home can make the process feel more manageable during diagnosis and treatment. Our goal is to help patients feel informed, supported, and comfortable about what comes next.
Learn what to expect at your first visit so you can feel more prepared and informed before treatment begins.
The most critical warning sign of skin cancer is the appearance of a new spot on the skin or changes in an existing spot that seem abnormal.
Skin cancer is typically identified first by an examination of the skin. Determining whether it is cancerous requires removal and testing, known as a biopsy.
Staging involves an assessment to determine how thick the tumor is and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body. Understanding the stage of your cancer is crucial.
There are various approaches to treating skin cancer, and your oncologist will work closely with you to determine the most effective combination of therapies based on the stage of cancer and your overall health
Skin cancer treatment depends on several factors, including the type of skin cancer, how early it was found, the size and location of the lesion, whether deeper tissue is involved, and the patient’s overall health. At El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers, treatment recommendations are made on an individual basis so patients receive care that fits their diagnosis and personal needs.
Learn how treatment decisions are made based on the type, size, location, and stage of the skin cancer.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It often grows slowly and is frequently treatable when found early. The best treatment for basal cell carcinoma is not the same for every patient. The most appropriate option may depend on the size, depth, location, and appearance of the area, as well as the patient’s medical history.
Treatment may include careful removal of the lesion, topical therapy in some cases, or other physician-recommended approaches when treatment needs to balance effectiveness with comfort, appearance, and normal function. Your doctor can explain these options in simple terms after reviewing the biopsy results and examining the affected area.
Treatment for squamous cell skin cancer also depends on how advanced the lesion is and where it is located. Squamous cell carcinoma can sometimes be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, which means early evaluation and treatment planning are especially important.
Depending on the individual case, treatment may involve removal of the lesion, localized treatment, or further evaluation if there is concern about deeper tissue involvement. In simple terms, localized treatment means care focused directly on the affected area. Your care team will consider the lesion’s size, depth, location, pathology findings, and your overall health before recommending a treatment plan.
When skin cancer is found early, patients may have more treatment choices and better overall outcomes. Early-stage skin cancer treatment options may include less extensive treatment approaches, especially for smaller or more localized basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers.
That is why it is important to have new spots, changing moles, sores that do not heal, or unusual skin changes evaluated promptly. Early diagnosis can help your care team recommend treatment at the most manageable stage.
HDR Brachytherapy is a method of treating cancer using radiation that is delivered from small devices placed very close to or inside the tumor. This approach is careful and focused to make sure that the radiation targets the cancer while protecting the healthy tissue around it.
During this treatment, tiny tubes are put into the tumor temporarily. Before each session, we check that these tubes are in the right place. Then, small pellets that emit radiation are placed inside these tubes. A computer helps control how deep the pellets go and how long they stay to ensure the radiation is delivered exactly where it’s needed.
This treatment is usually quick and can often be done in just a few minutes. Many patients can complete their treatment in one to two days, compared to several weeks for other types of radiation therapy. Depending on the cancer type and how advanced it is, HDR Brachytherapy might be used along with other treatments, which can affect how long the overall treatment lasts.
Skin Cancer Treatment Chart
Each treatment has advantages and disadvantages. These should be considered and discussed with your healthcare professional when planning your treatment.
Treatment
Advantages
Disadvantages
Surgery (such as excision and Mohs surgery)
External beam radiation theerapy (EBRT)
Brachytherapy
Other Therapies
Skin Cancer Treatment Chart
Each treatment has advantages and disadvantages. These should be considered and discussed with your healthcare professional when planning your treatment.
Treatment
Advantages
Disadvantages
Surgery (such as excision and Mohs surgery)
• Healthy tissue is also removed.
• Often restriction of activity to allow wound healing.
• Scarring
• Often need for reconstructive procedures.
• Risk of wound healing complications.
External beam radiation theerapy (EBRT)
• Non-invasive, painless
• Efficacy is comparable to surgery. Allows patient to continue taking prescribed medications.
• The treatment course can be long (4-6 weeks). Not suitable for all patients.
Brachytherapy
• High efficacy, excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes. Allows patients to continue taking prescribed medications.
• Less fractions than EBRT course (2-3 times a week rather than daily,, which translates particularly useful for elderly and frail patients.
• Not available at all hospitals.
• Multiple (usually 20-30) fractions.
Other Therapies
• Often non-invasive, safe and effective alternative to traditional treatment.
• Not suitable for all patients: factors such as tumor location, size, and cell type should be taken in consideration.
• More studies are required to prove the efficacy of treatment.
Dr. Alireza Mahmoudieh, M.D., D.A.B.R. — Board-Certified in Radiation Oncology, with more than 18 years of experience serving cancer patients across Merced and the Central Valley. Dr. Alireza Mahmoudieh has been a vital member of El Portal Comprehensive Cancer Centers since 2008. Before joining EPCC, he served as Director of the Prostate Brachytherapy Program at Kaiser Permanente in Sacramento and Roseville. EPCC lists him as a Radiation Oncologist and describes the center’s mission as providing evidence-based cancer treatment while treating patients and their advocates with dignity, respect, and compassion.
Dr. Alireza Mahmoudieh works closely with each patient to determine the most effective and least invasive treatment path based on diagnosis, lesion location, and personal preference. This helps patients better understand their care and feel more confident about the treatment plan recommended for them.
“America’s health care system is in crisis precisely because we systematically neglect wellness and prevention.”
— Tom Harkin
The most critical warning sign of skin cancer is the appearance of a new spot on the skin or changes in an existing spot that seem abnormal. Following the A B C D E guidelines can help you identify the common signs of skin cancer:
Skin cancer is typically identified first by a healthcare professional during an examination of an unusual area on the skin. However, determining whether it is cancerous requires removal and subsequent testing, known as a biopsy. This is the only reliable method to confirm a skin cancer diagnosis.
Staging Criteria