Skin Cancer Screening & Treatment Singapore
Skin Cancer Screening & Treatment Singapore
Skin cancer is a serious but often treatable condition when identified early. In Singapore, the most common types are basal cell carcinoma (BCC), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. While the overall incidence in Asian populations is lower than in Western countries, this can contribute to a false sense of reassurance – and in many cases, Asian patients present at a later stage, when treatment is more complex.
Regular skin assessment and prompt evaluation of suspicious lesions are essential. At Skincodes, Dr Ang Sue-May provides thorough skin screening, accurate diagnosis, and a clear treatment pathway.
Signs & Symptoms
The ABCDE rule provides a useful framework for identifying potentially concerning moles or lesions:
A – Asymmetry: one half of the lesion does not match the other
B – Border: irregular, ragged, notched, or blurred edges
C – Colour: variation within the lesion – multiple shades of brown, black, red, or white
D – Diameter: lesions larger than 6mm, or growing
E – Evolution: any change in size, shape, colour, or behaviour – including bleeding, crusting, or itching
Additional features of concern include a new mole appearing in adulthood, a sore that fails to heal, or a shiny, pearly nodule (characteristic of BCC).
In Asian patients, melanoma more commonly arises on acral sites – the palms, soles, and under the nails – rather than on sun-exposed areas. These locations are easily overlooked during self-examination, making periodic specialist review particularly valuable.
Causes & Risk Factors
Cumulative UV radiation exposure – from sunlight and artificial tanning devices
Fair skin and a history of sunburn
Family or personal history of skin cancer
Immunosuppression
Chronic skin trauma or scarring
In acral melanoma: genetic factors appear to play a greater role than UV exposure
Assessment and Treatment at Skincodes
Skin Screening and Mole Checks
A thorough whole-body skin examination to identify any lesions warranting closer attention. Dr Ang uses dermoscopy to assess moles and skin lesions with detail that the naked eye cannot provide.
Dermoscopy
A non-invasive technique that allows detailed visualisation of lesion structures beneath the skin surface, improving diagnostic accuracy significantly.
Biopsy
Where indicated, a tissue sample is taken for histological analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
Surgical Excision
The primary treatment for most skin cancers, performed with appropriate margins to ensure complete removal.
Surveillance and Follow-Up
Patients with confirmed skin cancer or atypical moles are monitored on a structured review schedule.
If you have a changing or suspicious lesion, early assessment matters. A timely consultation allows accurate diagnosis and, where treatment is required, management at the earliest and most straightforward stage.
Why Choose Specialist Surgical Care
Dermatological surgery performed by a specialist offers distinct advantages:
- Accurate pre-surgical diagnosis with dermoscopy. Lesions are assessed carefully as appearances can be
misleading without specialist evaluation - Appropriate margin assessment for cancer excisions based on lesion type and guidelines
- Histological analysis of all removed tissue to confirm diagnosis and clear margins
- Minimally invasive techniques selected to optimise cosmetic outcomes
- Structured follow-up and surveillance for ongoing skin health