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Skin Cancer (Spinaliomas and Basaliomas)

We take care of your largest organ, down to the smallest detail.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Germany. Every year there are about 191,000 new cases, and the number is rising. Spinaliomas are more frequent with 170,000 new cases per year, while basaliomas have about 21,200 new cases per year.

In addition to skin type and individual genetic stress, solar radiation has a large influence on the occurrence of skin cancer. Degeneration of the white blood cells (lymphocytes) can also manifest themselves on the skin. The most common representative of these cutaneous lymphomas is the so-called mycosis fungoides. The rarer skin tumours entail a degeneration of the blood vessels, connective tissue cells, Merkel cells and skin appendages.

Through an additional qualification in medical tumor therapy, acquired during my time at the Berlin Charité, I can advise you competently and empathetically on these diseases and together we can ensure that an effective therapy is initiated as quickly as possible, and in the case of corresponding diseases, we can conduct the necessary and reliable aftercare examinations.

Your questions. Our answers.

What is the difference between spinaliomas and basaliomas?

Basaliomas develop from pigment-forming cells (melanocytes) while spinaliomas develop from the corneocyte cells on the outer surface of the skin.

Is skin cancer dangerous?

Basaliomas are more dangerous because, if it is not detected in time, they can spread more rapidly than spinliomas. Therefore, skin cancer screening is very important: the earlier we detect the problem, the lower the health risk. Regular check-ups allow us to detect skin cancer in its very early stages when it is usually not dangerous if properly treated.

What are actinic keratoses and how are they treated?

Actinic keratoses are damaged areas of skin cells caused by UV radiation which, if left untreated, can lead to spinaliomas in 10–15% of all cases. Risk factors include fair skin, frequent sunburn and frequent tanning bed visits. Actinic keratoses, as potential precursors of spinaliomas, can often be treated with creams. An effective treatment option is the so-called photodynamic therapy (PDT). Ablative procedures with a laser or curette are another option. Basaliomas and spinaliomas are usually treated surgically.

How does photodynamic therapy (PDT) work?

We apply a cream containing aminolevulinic acid to the area to be treated. This substance is then mostly absorbed by the light-damaged cells. They convert it into the photosensitive compound, protoporphyrin. In a UV-light reaction – either daylight (daylight PDT) or with the aid of a UV lamp –oxygen free radicals are produced and this deliberately triggered ‘inflammatory process’ destroys the damaged cells. PDT is very well suited for the treatment of field cancerisation because it also detects subclinical lesions that are not yet visible. If we first perform fractional Erbium laser therapy, the skin can absorb the active substances even better.

How are basaliomas treated?

Melanomas and their precursors should always be surgically removed. If necessary, a second incision may have to be made to include a wider area than the original incision. When at an advanced stage, additional examinations (ultrasound, X-rays) and therapies are necessary.

What do I need to know about aftercare?

We strongly recommend that patients with basaliomas and spinaliomas come for a check-up every six months.

Our expert for the treatment of skin cancer (basaliomas and spinaliomas)

Dr. med. Anna Brandenburg

Make a non-binding enquiry via our contact form, call us on 040 – 46 77 46 27 or book an appointment directly online. We look forward to hearing from you.

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