Integrated Clinic for Skin Cancer Radiation Therapy

In the Integrated Clinic for Skin Cancer Radiation Therapy, shared with both the Dermatology Department and the Radiation Institute, we treat skin cancers with low-energy superficial radiation therapy (SRT) using an innovative device like the SENSUS SRT-100 type. This technology enables targeted, precise radiation directly to the cancer site, while maintaining high safety and efficiency.
 
The treatment lasts just a few minutes and is painless. Duration and frequency of treatments are determined depending on medical constraints, the patient’s health status, and their ability to visit the hospital. Typically, visiting the hospital 1 to 3 times weekly for a duration of 2 to 4 weeks is required.
 

Who is the treatment suitable for?

• Patients suffering from skin cancer who are not candidates for surgical intervention due to underlying conditions or because of their general medical condition.
• Based on the attending physician's recommendation, radiation therapy is advised as the preferred treatment when it is anticipated to yield better outcomes than surgery.
• Individuals seeking alternatives to surgical intervention.
• Patients who underwent surgery for the removal of skin cancers and are required to undergo post-operative radiotherapy.
   

Which cancers can be treated with the SRT method?

• Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
• Kaposi sarcoma
• Primary cutaneous lymphomas (type B)
• Keratoacanthoma (SCC-type)
• Palliative treatment of skin metastases

Comprehensive and fast service

Our patient-centred approach strives to offer comprehensive multidisciplinary services all in one location. Our goal is to spare our patients, including the elderly and those with mobility challenges, the inconvenience of multiple referrals and hospital visits.
 
When you're admitted to the clinic, our dermatologist and radiation doctor will perform a thorough check-up to determine the best treatment plan for you. Should surgery evaluation or extra tests (such as a diagnostic biopsy) be needed, we aim to complete them immediately, so you can begin your treatment without delay.
 
Our clinic's availability is high, and most patients are seen within a week of their referral. At the end of the treatment, a follow-up plan is established by a dermatologist or oncologist.

What are the side effects of the treatment?

Low-intensity radiation therapy is considered effective and safe. Typically, initial side effects such as redness and skin irritation dissipate roughly two weeks after treatment ends. Less common complications may include ulceration or localised infection.
 
Long-term side effects may include changes in skin texture (scarring), or skin tone, as well as skin tightening, hair loss at the treatment site, or the appearance of fine blood vessels (telangiectasias). Side effects and specific risks are discussed in detail with patients before starting treatment. 
 
Development of secondary skin malignancies in the irradiated area is a rare side effect and usually occurs after many years. Since the radiation therapy given is of low intensity, the radiation does not penetrate deeply into the body, and there are no systemic side effects or damage to internal organs.