Skin Cancer Care at Mayo Clinic

Mayo Clinic provides specialized evaluation and treatment for skin cancers and suspicious skin lesions. Dermatology and cancer specialists work together to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan based on the type, location, extent, and characteristics of the skin cancer.

Price

Price on Request

Why Price on Request?

The cost of skin cancer care depends on the type and stage of cancer, diagnostic testing, biopsy, surgical or non-surgical treatment, specialist consultations, and follow-up requirements. International patients may have additional care coordination needs. A personalized estimate can be provided after reviewing the patient's medical information.

Complete Description

What Is Skin Cancer Care?

Skin cancer care involves the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of cancers that develop in the skin. Common types include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Treatment is selected according to the specific cancer and the individual patient's circumstances.

Who May Need Skin Cancer Care?

Specialist evaluation may be recommended for patients with:

• A new or changing mole

• A suspicious skin growth

• A lesion that changes in color, size, or shape

• A persistent sore or skin lesion

• A lesion that bleeds or repeatedly develops a crust

• Previously diagnosed skin cancer

• Recurrent skin cancer

• Multiple suspicious lesions

• Skin cancer requiring specialized surgical or multidisciplinary treatment

Skin Cancer Evaluation

The evaluation generally begins with a detailed review of the patient's medical history and examination of suspicious skin areas. Specialists assess the appearance, location, size, and characteristics of lesions to determine whether additional investigation is required.

Skin Lesion Assessment

Suspicious lesions may be examined using specialized dermatological techniques. Depending on the findings, the care team may recommend monitoring, biopsy, removal, or other diagnostic procedures.

Skin Biopsy

A biopsy may be performed when tissue examination is needed to establish a diagnosis. The type of biopsy depends on the characteristics and location of the lesion and the clinical question being investigated.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Care

Basal cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer. Treatment depends on factors such as tumor location, size, characteristics, and previous treatment. Options may include surgical removal or selected non-surgical approaches when appropriate.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Care

Squamous cell carcinoma can vary in its clinical behavior and may require treatment based on the characteristics and extent of the tumor. Surgical treatment is commonly considered, while additional therapy may be appropriate for selected cases.

Melanoma Care

Melanoma requires careful evaluation because its behavior can vary according to the depth and stage of the disease. Treatment planning may involve dermatology, surgical specialists, oncology, pathology, and other relevant disciplines.

Surgical Treatment

Selected skin cancers may require surgical removal of the affected tissue. The surgical approach depends on the cancer type, size, location, depth, and surrounding structures.

Advanced Skin Cancer Treatment

Patients with more complex or advanced disease may require additional treatment beyond local removal. Depending on the diagnosis and stage, care may involve oncology specialists and systemic or other cancer-directed therapies.

Reconstructive Considerations

Removal of certain skin cancers, particularly those located on visible or functionally important areas, may require consideration of reconstruction. Reconstructive planning depends on the size and location of the affected area and the extent of tissue removal.

Multidisciplinary Cancer Care

Complex skin cancer cases may involve dermatologists, dermatologic or head and neck surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, reconstructive specialists, and other healthcare professionals. Coordinated evaluation can help develop an appropriate treatment strategy.

Follow-Up & Surveillance

Patients treated for skin cancer may require ongoing follow-up to monitor the treated area and evaluate for recurrence or additional suspicious lesions. The frequency and type of follow-up depend on the diagnosis and individual risk factors.

Second Opinion

Patients with an existing skin cancer diagnosis or recommended treatment may seek a specialist second opinion. Previous biopsy results, pathology reports, imaging, photographs, and treatment records can be reviewed when available.

Review of Previous Medical Records

International patients can provide pathology reports, biopsy results, imaging, previous treatment details, medication information, and other medical records. These materials may help specialists evaluate the diagnosis and plan further care.

Individualized Treatment Planning

Each treatment plan is developed according to the type and stage of cancer, lesion location, pathology findings, previous treatment, overall health, and individual circumstances. The care team determines which treatment approach is most appropriate for the specific case.

International Patient Care

International patients may receive assistance with coordinating specialist consultations, reviewing medical records, arranging diagnostic evaluation, and planning treatment. Appointment availability and eligibility requirements depend on the individual case.

Benefits of Skin Cancer Care

• Specialist evaluation of suspicious skin lesions

• Accurate diagnostic assessment when clinically appropriate

• Access to skin biopsy and pathology evaluation

• Individualized treatment planning

• Surgical and non-surgical treatment options when appropriate

• Multidisciplinary care for complex cases

• Follow-up and surveillance planning

• Specialist second-opinion services

• Support for international patients

Why Choose Mayo Clinic?

Mayo Clinic brings together dermatology, surgical, oncology, pathology, and other specialists to evaluate and manage complex skin cancer cases. Its multidisciplinary approach supports comprehensive diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up based on each patient's specific condition.

Cost & Price on Request

The total cost depends on the type and stage of skin cancer, diagnostic testing, biopsy, surgery or other treatment, specialist consultations, hospital services, and follow-up care. Price on Request allows the patient's case to be evaluated before an appropriate estimate is prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of skin cancer can be evaluated?

Specialists may evaluate common skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, as well as suspicious lesions requiring further investigation.

Does every suspicious skin lesion require a biopsy?

No. The need for a biopsy depends on the appearance and clinical assessment of the lesion. A biopsy may be recommended when tissue examination is necessary to establish a diagnosis.

Can skin cancer be treated with surgery?

Yes. Surgery is an important treatment option for many localized skin cancers. The appropriate surgical approach depends on the cancer type, size, location, and other clinical factors.

Can I get a second opinion for a skin cancer diagnosis?

Yes. A specialist second opinion may help patients better understand their diagnosis and treatment options. Previous pathology reports and medical records can assist with the review.

Can international patients receive skin cancer care at Mayo Clinic?

International patients may seek evaluation and treatment subject to applicable medical, appointment, and eligibility requirements. Providing previous diagnostic and pathology records can support the assessment.

Product Details

Product Name: Skin Cancer Care at Mayo Clinic
Hospital: Mayo Clinic
Brand: Mayo Clinic
Country: United States
Specialty: Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine
Service Type: Skin Cancer Evaluation & Treatment
Customer-Facing Price: Price on Request
International Patients: Subject to applicable eligibility and appointment requirements
Location: Rochester, Minnesota, USA