GentleCure Blog

How Fast Does Skin Cancer Grow?

Skin cancer starts when cells in the skin grow out of control. Some forms of skin cancer tend to grow in a matter of weeks, while others grow over months, or even longer. While a number of factors determine how fast or slow skin cancer may grow in any one individual, some types of skin cancer are more aggressive than others. In the space below, we look at typical growth rates for some specific types of cancer, so that you can have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider.

Growth Rates of Common Skin Cancers

Basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer are both more common than melanoma. They are also the two most commonly diagnosed types of skin cancer overall. 

  • Basal Cell Skin Cancer Growth Rate: Basal cell cancers are very slow-growing and are rarely capable of spreading to other parts of the body. However, the skin cancer may progress locally to the surrounding healthy skin cells over time, if its causes are left untreated. 
  • Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Growth Rate: Squamous cell cancers, while still slow-growing, are known to grow more rapidly than basal cell cancers. And, unlike basal cell cancers, there is an increased risk of squamous cell cancers spreading to other areas of the body – like the local lymph system – if left untreated. The early form of squamous cell carcinoma is known as Bowen’s disease.

Melanoma Skin Cancer Growth Rate

Melanoma skin cancer is the most dangerous and aggressive type of skin cancer, but it is significantly less common than the other types of skin cancer discussed above. Melanoma skin cancer has a rapid growth rate, which is what makes it so dangerous; it can turn life-threatening in just six weeks and poses a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated. 

Understanding Your Treatment Options: Mohs Surgery vs. Image-Guided SRT

Minor cases of skin cancer can often be treated with a simple excision, but in about half of all cases more significant intervention is needed. While Mohs surgery effectively treats non-melanoma skin cancer in most cases, the side effects of Mohs surgery can be significant – with bleeding, pain, and healing time being the most common. There’s also a need for reconstructive surgery in about one-third of cases.

If you are searching for a surgery-free alternative, you’ll want to ask your healthcare provider about Image-Guided SRT. This highly-effective cure for common basal and squamous cell skin cancers uses ultrasound images and radiotherapy in order to treat the skin cancer area without a risk of scarring and without limits to your daily activities. Side effects are mild to moderate, and treatment is more than 99% effective.

Call GentleCure to Learn More About Image-Guided SRT

Want to know more about how Image-Guided SRT works? Curious about what to expect during treatment? The skin cancer information specialists at GentleCure are here to help; call us at 855-936-4411 to get started today, or talk to your trusted healthcare provider about the best options for your situation.

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For more information on skin cancer treatment options, speak with a Skin Cancer Information Specialist today.

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