Articles

Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer

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by Oncologic Advisors

Men have more options than ever before when choosing a course of treatment, including a promising form of radiation therapy commonly known as proton therapy for prostate cancer (UF Health). 161,360 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2017, with an estimated 1 in 7 American men facing a diagnoses in their lifetimes. Those statistics may sound scary, but there are plenty of reasons to have hope if you or someone you love is fighting prostate cancer. As the ACA notes, survival rates for prostate cancer are quite high, and most American men diagnosed with this type of cancer do not die from it ([1] American Cancer Society).

Proton therapy (also called “proton beam radiation”) is a targeted method of treatment that provides a more accurate (and less toxic) alternative to conventional X-ray radiation. This therapy has been approved in the U.S. since 1988, but limitations in cost and infrastructure have limited its widespread use until somewhat recently (UF Health). If the idea of proton therapy is news to you, you may wish to learn more about it and ask your doctor if it might be a worthwhile addition to your treatment.

WHAT IS PROTON THERAPY?

Proton beam radiation is a method of targeting cancer cells with a focused dose of proton particles, attacking malignant cells with reduced exposure and damage to surrounding tissues and organs. This precise method of delivery permits doctors to use higher doses of radiation with fewer risks and side-effects for their patients. The greater accuracy allowed by proton therapy makes it a natural choice for treating tumors in delicate or otherwise difficult-to-target parts of the body, such as the brain or prostate (the latter of which is located in close proximity to the bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs). The low incidence of side-effects associated with proton therapy also means it is an excellent choice for treating certain pediatric cancers. Localized cancers – that is, cancers that haven’t metastasized, or spread to other parts of the body – are ideal candidates for treatment with proton therapy (UF Health).

So, how exactly does proton therapy work? In traditional X-ray radiation, doctors aim a beam of photons at a tumor in order to attack the malignant cells. But these X-rays don’t just stop short once they reach the tumor: they continue to pass through the body, leaving a kind of “exit wound” of damaged tissue on the way out. But protons are different: because of the way these heavy particles behave, doctors are able to aim a proton beam with just the right amount of energy to penetrate a tumor but stop short before exiting the body. This targeted approach helps reduce damage to healthy tissues and vital organs. ([1] UpToDate).

Proton radiation techniques continue to improve with new developments in technology. For example, some facilities now offer a type of proton therapy called “pencil beam scanning,” which is an even more precise method of delivering radiation to a tumor in subtle, brush-like strokes using a single proton beam (MD Anderson).

Researchers are also investigating what role other heavy particles (such as neutrons and carbon ions) might play in radiation therapy, though our clinical experience with them is still quite limited ([1] UpToDate). Proton therapy for prostate cancer (and other cancers) remains the most common form of heavy-particle therapy in use today (Journal of Clinical Oncology).

PROTON THERAPY FOR PROSTATE CANCER: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Proton radiation therapy is non-invasive, painless, and requires no recovery time following treatment. This is promising news for patients, who are able to pursue an advanced, effective treatment plan with minimal impact on their daily lives.

Prostate cancer patients typically receive daily proton treatments five days a week over a course of eight weeks; these treatments are administered on an outpatient basis, and often take no more than 15 to 20 minutes each day. In addition, prostate cancer patients who are treated with proton therapy experience minimal risk of impotence or sexual side-effects both during and after treatment (MD Anderson). Some patients experience mild fatigue, in addition to redness or hair loss around the direct treatment area, but other side effects on the whole appear to be minimal (Mayo Clinic).

Studies suggest that clinical outcomes for patients with proton therapy are similar to those treated with traditional X-ray radiation, which makes it an appealing option for many men who hope to maintain a higher quality of life during treatment without hindering their chances for a successful outcome ([2] UpToDate).

Proton therapy for prostate cancer is an FDA-approved treatment and is not considered to be an experimental therapy – that means you don’t have to be accepted into a study in order to get it. Cost is often a limiting factor, but more insurance plans are beginning to cover treatments as more facilities nationwide continue to adopt proton technology; the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas, the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and Arizona, and the University of Florida Health Proton Therapy Institute are just some of the locations around the U.S. currently offering proton beam radiation to their patients. That said, widespread infrastructure is still catching up with demand, and many doctors are still learning about the uses and benefits of proton therapy for prostate cancer. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you haven’t discussed proton radiation as an option for treatment, and don’t be afraid to get a second opinion if your doctor is unfamiliar with proton therapy (UF Health).

Remember that there is no one “right” way to treat prostate cancer, and as with other types of radiation your doctor may order proton therapy in conjunction with other forms of treatment. Other common techniques for treating prostate cancer include surgery, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, cryotherapy, and (in cases where the cancer has spread to other parts of the body) chemotherapy. Only you and your doctor can determine which treatment or combination of treatments is most suitable for you ([2] American Cancer Society).

IN CONCLUSION

Proton therapy is an exciting option for many men who are fighting prostate cancer thanks to its accurate, non-invasive nature. Proton radiation techniques continue to evolve with time, allowing for greater precision, shorter treatment times, and better quality of life during treatment. As proton technology becomes more available in facilities across the U.S., more patients will be able to enjoy its benefits and incorporate proton therapy into an effective battle plan against cancer.

Have Questions About Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer or Need Help Making Important Treatment Decisions? Contact us, we’re here to help.
RESOURCES

[1] American Cancer Society – Key Statistics for Prostate Cancer.

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/about/key-statistics.html

Frequently Asked Questions about Proton Therapy. UF Health Proton Therapy Institute.

https://www.floridaproton.org/what-is-proton-therapy/faq

[1] UpToDate.com – Radiation therapy techniques in cancer treatment.

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/radiation-therapy-techniques-in-cancer-treatment?source=see_link&sectionName=Particle%20therapy&anchor=H1070824853#H1070824853

MD Anderson Cancer Center – Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer.

https://www.mdanderson.org/patients-family/diagnosis-treatment/care-centers-clinics/proton-therapy-center/conditions-we-treat/prostate-cancer.html

Journal of Clinical Oncology – Promise and Pitfalls of Heavy-Particle Theapy. Timur Mitin and Anthony L. Zeitman, August 24, 2014.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4152713/

Mayo Clinic – Proton Therapy Risks. Mayo Clinic Staff.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/proton-therapy/details/risks/cmc-20185458

[2] UpToDate.com. External beam radiation therapy for localized prostate cancer. Steven J DiBiase, MD and Mack Roach III, MD. Topic last updated: April 10, 2017.

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/external-beam-radiation-therapy-for-localized-prostate-cancer?source=search_result&search=proton%20therapy%20and%20prostate%20cancer&selectedTitle=1~150

[1] UpToDate.com – Radiation therapy techniques in cancer treatment.

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/radiation-therapy-techniques-in-cancer-treatment?source=see_link&sectionName=Particle%20therapy&anchor=H1070824853#H1070824853

[2] American Cancer Society – Treating Prostate Cancer

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/treating.html

 

 

Understanding the Mammogram Procedure

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by Oncologic Advisors

Approximately 252,710 American women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2017. Breast cancer is the second deadliest form of cancer in women, and of those who are diagnosed around 40,610 are predicted to die. The good news is that early detection radically increases a woman’s chances of survival, and advanced screening techniques (including the mammogram procedure) combined with new, personalized therapies are creating stronger, more effective ways for doctors and their patients to fight the disease ([1] American Cancer Society).

You probably know that the mammogram procedure is one of the most common ways that doctors screen patients for breast cancer. But how do you know if you should get one? And what should you expect if you’ve never had a mammogram procedure before?

Don’t let fear of the unknown prevent you from utilizing this potentially-lifesaving measure. Here we’ll demystify some important facts about mammograms, and talk through what you need to know about standard mammogram procedure before you get one.

SHOULD I GET A MAMMOGRAM?

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that is used to screen for and diagnose cancers and other breast diseases that may not be visible from the outside or detectable by touch (Johns Hopkins).

Women over 40, women with a personal or family history of breast cancer, and women who have tested positive for certain genetic markers associated with an increased risk for the disease appear to derive the greatest benefit from mammograms. Age is an important factor in determining when a woman should begin to use mammograms as a method of screening: younger women tend to have a lower incidence of breast cancer, and tend to have denser breast tissue that makes mammography less reliable as a preventative strategy.(UpToDate).

You and your doctor must work together to determine if mammograms are an appropriate screening strategy for you. Your doctor may order a mammogram as part of a regular, precautionary regimen (a “screening mammogram”), or if a lump or other anomaly is discovered during a previous mammogram or breast exam (a “diagnostic mammogram”). If so, your doctor will refer you to a radiology facility or clinic that is equipped to perform the procedure. You may also get a referral for a mammogram through Planned Parenthood (Planned Parenthood).

Mammograms are often an outpatient procedure, though your doctor may also order one as part of your treatment while you are in the hospital (Johns Hopkins). Your doctor may recommend mammograms in combination with other screening and diagnostic methods such as clinical breast exams (palpation or examination by touch), ultrasound or MRI imaging, and genetic testing. Modern techniques mean the radiation exposure a woman receives from a mammogram is considered to be negligible (UpToDate).

MAMMOGRAM PROCEDURE: WHAT TO EXPECT

Mammogram procedure may vary slightly from facility to facility, and from woman to woman. That said, there are several basic steps that you should take in order to prepare for your mammogram no matter where you go.

If you are visiting a mammogram facility for the first time, always bring your medical records with you or arrange to have them delivered to the clinic. ([2] American Cancer Society). Always inform the facility if you’ve had any kind of medical procedure performed on your breasts in the past, including previous mammograms, biopsies, breast implants, enhancements, or breast reductions. Always inform your technician in advance if you have breast implants, if you are pregnant, or if you are currently breastfeeding. Women with implants can (and should) still receive mammograms, though your facility may need to take extra measures to in order to ensure the most accurate results. Silicone or saline implants will obscure part of the breast tissue that is visible on a mammogram, and so additional imaging is typically required for women who have them. ([3] American Cancer Society). You may need to arrange for a technician or facility experienced in screening women with implants, so don’t be afraid to ask questions when you make your initial appointment (Johns Hopkins).

Be sure to remove any nipple piercings or jewelry on or near your breasts prior to your visit. Don’t wear antiperspirant, deodorant, skin creams, or powders on or near your breasts the day of your mammogram: many of these products contain metallic substances (like aluminum) which may appear on the mammogram as a white spot or calcification (Johns Hopkins).

When you arrive, your technician (also called a radiologic technologist) will talk you through the details of the mammogram procedure. Be sure to mention any lumps, changes, or unusual symptoms you may have noticed at this time, in addition to any hormonal treatments you may be taking or changes (like menopause) you may be experiencing.

Before your mammogram, your technician will ask you to remove your bra and clothing from the waist up and provide you with a gown. The technician will then have you stand in front of a mammography machine, which compresses each breast between two plates in order to take an X-ray picture. “Flattening” the breast in this way allows your technician to obtain a more accurate image, and also reduces the amount of radiation required for the procedure. This compression may be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful; scar tissue or recent surgery may cause greater discomfort for some women, and many women find it helpful to avoid scheduling their mammograms immediately prior to or during menstruation when breasts are more likely to be tender. (Johns Hopkins). Don’t be afraid to speak up and tell your technician right away if something is painful!

Your technician will scan each breast one at a time, repositioning the breast on the X-ray plate between each image. Typically, he or she will take two images per breast for women without implants, and four images per breast for women with implants, though the exact number of images may vary from woman to woman ([3] American Cancer Society).

All in all, the whole procedure should take 20-30 minutes. (Johns Hopkins)

WHAT NEXT?

After a radiologist has read and analyzed the X-ray films, the mammography clinic will send the results to the doctor who referred you. The clinic will also mail a summary of these results directly to you ([2] American Cancer Society). You may be asked to go back in for additional imaging after your initial mammogram. Remember that getting called back is quite common, and does not necessarily mean you have cancer. As the American Cancer Society notes, “less than 10% of women called back for more tests are found to have breast cancer.” ([4] American Cancer Society).

You may have heard about instances of “false positive” results from mammograms, or read about the risk of  “overdiagnosis” and “overtreatment” associated with mammograms as a method of screening: that is, sometimes a mammogram may detect a lump or other disease that would typically be benign if it went undetected, leading to unnecessary treatment. The good news is that more specific, “personalized” screening measures – like using genomic testing to determine if a woman is at increased risk for breast cancer, and thusly more likely to benefit from mammograms – are helping doctors to reduce the incidence of false positives, keep costs down, and make the best possible use of mammograms as a screening and diagnostic tool (STAT).

Remember that it is often difficult to tell how aggressive a cancer or other disease may be through mammography alone, so always talk to your doctor about your options for further testing and treatment if your mammogram does come back with abnormal results. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you have trouble understanding something, or to get a second opinion if you have any doubts or concerns about your results or treatment.

Above all, remember that mammograms are just one of the many resources women have at their disposal to make better, more informed choices about their health. And in the fight against cancer, a little knowledge can be a lifesaving thing.

Have Questions About Breast Cancer or Need Help Making Important Treatment Decisions? Contact us, we’re here to help.

 

REFERENCES

[1] American Cancer Society – How Common Is Breast Cancer?

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html

Johns Hopkins Medicine Health Library – Mammogram Procedure.

http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/test_procedures/gynecology/mammogram_procedure_92,P07781/

UpToDate.com – Screening for breast cancer: Strategies and recommendations. Joann G. Elmore, MD MPH. Topic last updated: August 26, 2016

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/screening-for-breast-cancer-strategies-and-recommendations?source=search_result&search=mammogram&selectedTitle=1~150

Planned Parenthood – Statement from Planned Parenthood Federation of America Senior Director of Medical Services Dr. Deborah Nucatola on Breast Health Services. October 17, 2012

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/statement-planned-parenthood-senior-director-medical-services-breast-health-services

[2] American Cancer Society – Mammograms: What to Know Before You Go.

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/mammograms/mammograms-what-to-know-before-you-go.html

[3] American Cancer Society – Mammograms for Women with Breast Implants.

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/mammograms/mammograms-for-women-with-breast-implants.html

[4] American Cancer Society – Getting Called Back After a Mammogram.

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/screening-tests-and-early-detection/mammograms/getting-called-back-after-a-mammogram.html

STAT – Mammograms plus personalized treatment are the best options to fight breast cancer. Dennis Citrin, February 16, 2017.

https://www.statnews.com/2017/02/16/mammograms-plus-personalized-treatment-best-options-fight-breast-cancer/

Colon Cancer Survival Rate

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by Oncologic Advisors

Learning about colon cancer survival rate helps a cancer patient better understand how likely it is that their treatment will be successful. Survival rates do not tell the whole story and do not determine how long a particular cancer patient will live. By observing the 5-year colon cancer survival rates, you will be looking at data that was captured within a 5-year range. Moreover, treatments now may have a better outlook than these numbers portray, since treatments are improving. These statistics observe cases of when the cancer was first diagnosed and does not record instances that the cancer reoccurred. According to the American Cancer Society, “The 5-year relative survival rates are estimates – your outlook can vary based on a number of factors specific to you.” The following statistics derive from The National Institute’s SEER Database.

Colon Cancer Survival Rate

The 5-year relative colon cancer survival rate for stage 1 is 92%. The 5-year relative colon cancer survival rate for stage IIA is 87% and stage IIB is 63%. The 5-year relative colon cancer survival rate for stage IIIA is 89%, stage IIIB is 69%, and stage IIIC is 53%. The 5-year relative colon cancer survival rate for stage IV is 11%.

Colon Cancer Survival Rate

Remember, there are still options for people that are in progressed cancer stages. Every day new treatments are coming out and options are increasing. Oncologic Advisors connects patients to these new treatments, such as cutting-edge clinical trials.  Navigational services, like Oncologic Advisors, can help patients decide on which treatment is best for their cancer type and stage.  By connecting you to the top treatment centers and doctors, Oncologic Advisors helps ensure you are increasing your chances for survival. We are professional and fast in our research, providing you with the best treatment options within a week.

References

What Are the Survival Rates for Colorectal Cancer, by Stage? (n.d.). Retrieved March 12, 2017, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html

Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rate

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by Oncologic Advisors

Learning about pancreatic cancer survival rate helps a cancer patient better understand how likely it is that their treatment will be successful. Survival rates do not tell the whole story and do not determine how long a particular cancer patient will live for. By observing the 5-year pancreatic cancer survival rates, you will be looking at data that was captured within a 5-year range. Moreover, treatments now may have a better outlook than these numbers portray, since treatments are improving. These statistics observe cases of when the cancer was first diagnosed and does not record instances that the cancer reoccurred. According to the American Cancer Society, “The 5-year relative survival rates are estimates – your outlook can vary based on a number of factors specific to you.”

Do you need to ask an Oncologist basic questions? Speak to one today!

Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rate

According to the American Cancer Society, people (in general) who can be treated with surgery tend to live longer than those who cannot be treated by surgery. Moreover, “The numbers below come from the National Cancer Data Base and are based on people diagnosed with exocrine pancreatic cancer between 1992 and 1998” (American Cancer Society).

The 5-year stage IA pancreatic cancer survival rate is 14% and 12% for stage IB. The 5-year stage IIA pancreatic cancer survival rate is 7% and 5% for stage IIB. The 5-year stage III pancreatic cancer survival rate is 3%. The 5-year stage IV pancreatic cancer survival rate is 1%.

Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rate

Do you need to ask an Oncologist basic questions? Speak to one today!

Neuroendocrine Pancreatic Tumors Survival Rate

These pancreatic cancer survival rates only apply to people that have been treated by surgery. Moreover, “These numbers come from the National Cancer Data Base and are based on patients diagnosed between 1985 and 2004” (American Cancer Society).

The 5-year pancreatic cancer rate for stage 1 pancreatic NETs is 61%. The 5-year pancreatic cancer survival rate for stage II pancreatic NETs is 52%. The 5-year pancreatic cancer survival rate for stage III pancreatic NETs is 41%. The 5-year pancreatic cancer survival rate for stage IV pancreatic NETs is 16%. Furthermore, “In this database, the overall 5-year survival rate for people who did not have their tumors removed by surgery was 16%” (American Cancer Society).

Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rate

Remember, there are still options for people that are in progressed cancer stages. Every day new treatments are coming out and options are increasing. Navigational services, like Oncologic Advisors, can help patients decide on which treatment is best for their cancer type and stage. Moreover, “There is increasing evidence that the best pancreatic cancer outcomes are achieved at major medical centers with extensive experience” (Hirshberg Foundation). By connecting you to the top treatment centers and doctors, Oncologic Advisors helps ensure you are increasing your chances for survival.

An Oncologist can help you answer basic questions, Have a 30 min consultation with one today for only $125 – no insurance needed! Schedule yours today.

References

Written by Kimberly HollandMedically Reviewed by. (n.d.). Pancreatic Cancer: Prognosis & Life

Expectancy. Retrieved March 04, 2017, from http://www.healthline.com/health/pancreatic-cancer/prognosis-life-expectancy#Outlook4

Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rates, by Stage. (n.d.). Retrieved March 04, 2017, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/pancreatic-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html

Prognosis. (n.d.). Retrieved March 04, 2017, from http://pancreatic.org/pancreatic-

cancer/about-the-pancreas/prognosis/

 

 

 

February is National Cancer Prevention Month

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by Oncologic Advisors

Many cancer types can be prevented by making healthy choices, such as avoiding tobacco, limited alcohol, protecting your skin, being active, eating fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight (CDC). This cancer prevention month, learn tips that help prevent cancer!

Plant-based foods:

 By avoiding the consumption of red-meat and processed meat, you are fortifying your body against cancer (American Institute for Cancer Research). A report from AICR concluded, “a convincing scientific link between red and processed meats and colon cancer, so it’s a good idea to limit red meat to 18 ounces of lean cuts per week and avoid processed meats like ham, hot dogs, sausage and bacon” (American Institute for Cancer Research).

Be physically active:

Being active for 30 minutes each day, prevents weight gain (American Institute for Cancer Research). Activities can include walking, dancing, vacuuming, among others. You can break down physical activities throughout the day, completing 15-minute sessions.

Lead a healthy lifestyle:

 Cancer prevention lies in everyday choices, such as choosing not to consume large quantities of alcohol or avoiding tobacco usage. It is also important to screen for potential cancer. By finding precancerous lesions, cervical and colorectal cancers can be prevented. Moreover, vaccines, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), can help prevent most cervical cancers.

About our service:

OncoLogic Advisors are a group of dedicated, objective oncologists providing navigational assistance to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. If necessary, we arrange for second or multiple opinions from leading physicians—regionally or nationwide. As objective patient advocates, our approach is revolutionary. We cast a wide net and do the analysis and research, enabling patients to make confident decisions about doctors, treatment centers, and methods of treatment.  We review the risks and benefits of each of those treatments—all while providing support and guidance through each decision point—from work-up and beyond. We prepare patients to ask relevant and necessary questions during their doctor visits. Our current healthcare system lacks objective, expert, oncologist advocates for cancer patients. OncoLogic Advisors, a logical, revolutionary service, is changing the paradigm.

References

AICR – eNews: February is National Cancer Prevention Month. (n.d.). Retrieved February 07, 2017, from http://preventcancer.aicr.org/site/News2?id=14377

How to Prevent Cancer or Find It Early. (2016, September 06). Retrieved February 07, 2017, from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/prevention/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Skin Cancer Treatment: Surgery Is Not Your Only Option

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by Oncologic Advisors

We have all heard the warnings: “If you do not apply sunscreen you will develop skin cancer.” What exactly is “skin cancer” and can a little sunburn actually contribute to the development of skin cancer in the future? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “Skin cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells. It occurs when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or tanning beds) triggers mutations, or genetic defects, that lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumors” (Skin Cancer Foundation).

Different types of skin cancers (and pre-cancers)

Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis)

This type of skin cancer (pre-cancer) usually appears on sun-exposed areas. Triggered by the damage of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, these crusty, scaly growths usually appear on a person’s face, scalp, lips, and back of the hand. Moreover, “Treatments destroy the affected area of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, which usually cures actinic keratosis” (American Cancer Society). Treatment options for Actinic Keratosis include Cryosurgery, Topical Medications, Photodynamic Therapy, Curettage and Electrodessication, Chemical Peeling, Laser Surgery, or a combination of therapies.

Basal Cell Carcinoma

This type of cancer is usually caused by sun exposure (long-term and short-term). These abnormal growths appear in the skin’s basal cells. The growths appear as red patches, scars, and bumps. Treatment options for Basal Cell Carcinoma include Curettage and Electrodessication, Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Excisional Surgery, Radiation, Cryosurgery, Photodynamic Therapy, Laser Surgery, Topical Medications, or Oral Medicine for Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma.

Melanoma

This type of skin cancer is often referred to as the “most dangerous” of the skin cancers. Melanoma is caused by the exposure to ultraviolet rays, which trigger mutations, prompting the skin cells to reproduce rapidly, causing malignant tumors. Moreover, “Most melanoma cells still make melanin, so melanoma tumors are usually brown or black” (American Cancer Society). Treatment options for Melanoma include surgery.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma

This type of skin cancer usually appears on sun-exposed areas (mostly on individuals 50 years or older with fair complexion). Merkel Cell Carcinoma is 30 times rarer than Melanoma (Skin Cancer Foundation). Treatment options for Merkel Cell Carcinoma include surgical excision, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma  

This type of skin cancer is usually triggered by a lifetime of sun exposure. These growths (often scaly, open sores, warts, or red patches) are abnormal cells surfacing in the squamous cells. Although this cancer type usually appears on sun-exposed areas, it can also appear on all areas of the body. Treatment options for this cancer type include Mohs Micrographic Surgery, Excisional Surgery, Curettage and Electrodessication, Cryosurgery, Radiation, Photodynamic Therapy, Laser Surgery, and Topical Medications.

Note about Atypical Moles (Dysplastic Nevi)

 “People who have Atypical Moles are at increased risk of developing melanoma in a mole or elsewhere on the body. The higher the number of these moles someone has, the higher the risk” (Skin Cancer Foundation). If a doctor determines a mole is atypical or if a new mole appears after age forty, a person will need a biopsy. It is crucial to monitor a mole if a doctor determines it is atypical. A doctor may choose to not remove an atypical mole.

Apart from popular belief, surgery is not the only treatment option for skin cancer. If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, it is crucial that you explore your treatment options prior to committing to any cancer treatment. “We are experts in providing guidance for the non-surgical treatment of skin cancer. We can suggest less invasive options resulting in minimal to no scarring” (OncoLogic Advisors). 

About our service:

OncoLogic Advisors are a group of dedicated, objective oncologists providing navigational assistance to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. If necessary, we arrange for second or multiple opinions from leading physicians—regionally or nationwide. As objective patient advocates, our approach is revolutionary. We cast a wide net and do the analysis and research, enabling patients to make confident decisions about doctors, treatment centers, and methods of treatment.  We review the risks and benefits of each of those treatments—all while providing support and guidance through each decision point—from work-up and beyond. We prepare patients to ask relevant and necessary questions during their doctor visits. Our current healthcare system lacks objective, expert, oncologist advocates for cancer patients. OncoLogic Advisors, a logical, revolutionary service, is changing the paradigm.

References:

Skin Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2016, from http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/atypical-moles/treatment

Treating actinic keratosis and Bowen disease. (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2016, from http://www.cancer.org/cancer/skincancer-basalandsquamouscell/detailedguide/skin-cancer-basal-and-squamous-cell-treating-actinic-keratosis

What is melanoma skin cancer? (n.d.). Retrieved December 15, 2016, from http://www.cancer.org/cancer/skincancer-melanoma/detailedguide/melanoma-skin-cancer-what-is-melanoma

Seeking a Cancer Second Opinion

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by Oncologic Advisors

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, you are bombarded with endless treatment decisions. Since cancer moves fast, you may accept the treatment suggestion from your doctor and start the process to becoming cancer-free. What if there is a better treatment? What if the suggested treatment was not the optimal choice? “One in two people will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. It is estimated that up to one in five of those will be misdiagnosed or mistreated, which may result in increased chances for recurrence or sub-optimal treatment, leading to unnecessary side-effects and complications” (OncoLogic Advisors). Receiving a cancer second opinion ensures you that your diagnosis is correct and your treatment plan is optimal.

Reasons to receive a cancer second opinion:
  • You want to explore all the options
  • You want to ensure your diagnosis is correct
  • You want to learn about clinical trials
  • You have a rare cancer type
  • Many options exist for your cancer type
  • Your doctor is unsure of your treatment
  • You are unsure of your doctor
  • Your doctor is not a specialist in your cancer type
  • You want to be sure you are receiving the optimal treatment
How do I receive a cancer second opinion?

It is important to let your doctor know you wish to seek a second opinion. Most doctors will even recommend a cancer second opinion doctor. Make sure your cancer second opinion doctor has the necessary credentials, board certification, training, and experience. You can find a doctor through a referral, local hospital/clinics, medical associations, American Board of Medical Specialties, American Medical Association, American College of Surgeons, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and OncoLogic Advisors.

What do I bring to my appointment?

You will be asked to bring (or send over) necessary medical records, such as tests results (blood work or imaging tests). Many times the doctor providing the cancer second opinion will request tests or procedures you have already completed, eliminating the repeat process. The cancer second opinion doctor may also request images, such as computed tomography (CT) scan and pathology slides (from biopsy).

What do I discuss in my appointment?

Make sure to listen carefully to your options and take notes during the appointment. If you do not understand the diagnosis, ask questions. It is important that you feel comfortable and confident about the information that is being discussed. Bring a family member or close friend with you to the appointment.

After the appointment:

Now that you have received a second opinion, it is time to find the optimal treatment plan. Make an appointment with your first doctor and discuss the second opinion results. If necessary, arrange for the two doctors to speak and review the case together. Seek a third opinion, if necessary.

Remember – When diagnosed with cancer, time is of the essence. Make sure you receive a timely appointment, to avoid a long interruption time before treatment. At Oncologic Advisors, we understand your time is valuable and provide fast and objective second opinions.

About our service:

OncoLogic Advisors are a group of dedicated, objective oncologists providing navigational assistance to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. If necessary, we arrange for second or multiple opinions from leading physicians—regionally or nationwide. As objective patient advocates, our approach is revolutionary. We cast a wide net and do the analysis and research, enabling patients to make confident decisions about doctors, treatment centers, and methods of treatment.  We review the risks and benefits of each of those treatments—all while providing support and guidance through each decision point—from work-up and beyond. We prepare patients to ask relevant and necessary questions during their doctor visits. Our current healthcare system lacks objective, expert, oncologist advocates for cancer patients. OncoLogic Advisors, a logical, revolutionary service, is changing the paradigm.