Paediatric skin oncology covers a broad group of conditions that affect children of all ages. Fortunately, many of them respond well to treatment, especially when detected early and managed correctly.
Switzerland is one of the countries where the treatment of paediatric skin cancer is at the highest level. Leading international specialists work here, the clinics have the latest equipment, and treatment methods are continually being refined.
What are the symptoms of skin tumours?
Detecting a suspicious lesion on the skin early improves the chances of successful treatment. Parents should examine their child’s skin regularly. If you notice any of the following signs, consult a specialist:
- a growth on the skin has changed colour or started to bleed;
- part of a mole or birthmark is spreading or changing shape;
- a skin growth is increasing rapidly in size;
- the child complains of burning or itching around the tumour;
- the growth has become inflamed and causes discomfort.
At the appointment, the doctor examines the child and orders all the necessary diagnostic tests. The most precise and informative examination in this case is a biopsy of tissue from the affected area, followed by laboratory analysis. Because the growth lies on the surface of the skin, obtaining a sample is straightforward.
How skin tumours in children are treated at Swiss clinics
Much depends on the type of tumour. Benign growths are harmless, although removal of some of them may be recommended to rule out the risk of malignant transformation. Malignant tumours require immediate treatment. At Klinik Hirslanden, the following methods are used to treat malignant skin tumours in children:
- Surgery. Various approaches may be used: removal by freezing (cryodestruction), laser destruction, electrocoagulation and excision. The choice of surgical method depends on the type of tumour, so a cytological examination is always carried out first. Melanomas, for example, can be treated only by excision. To receive high-quality care and minimise the risk of complications or recurrence, turn only to skilled specialists with hundreds of successful operations behind them.
- Radiotherapy. This gives the best results in treating skin cancer. Its advantages over surgery include a good cosmetic result and the fact that it is painless and bloodless. Radiotherapy is most often prescribed when the tumour is located on the face, as it removes the growth without leaving visible marks. Radiotherapy may also be prescribed as the main treatment for skin cancer in cases of recurrence, or as a preventive measure after surgery.
The advantages of treating paediatric skin cancer in Switzerland
- Highly qualified specialists: Swiss doctors have many years of experience in treating paediatric skin cancer and regularly take part in international research and conferences.
- The latest equipment: Swiss clinics have state-of-the-art equipment for diagnosing and treating paediatric skin cancer.
- An individual approach: In Switzerland, each child receives an individual treatment plan that takes into account every aspect of their condition.
- Psychological support: Children and their families in Switzerland receive psychological support to help them cope with the challenges of treatment.
Which methods are used to treat paediatric skin cancer in Switzerland?
Switzerland uses a wide range of methods to treat paediatric skin cancer, including:
- Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumour is one of the main treatments for paediatric skin cancer.
- Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy is used to destroy cancer cells and prevent them from spreading.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is the use of medicines to destroy cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a treatment that helps the body’s immune system fight cancer.
Which clinics in Switzerland specialise in treating paediatric skin cancer?
Children diagnosed with skin cancer need particularly careful and comprehensive treatment. Their bodies are sensitive to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other methods, which makes treatment more complex and calls for special attention from doctors. One of the main challenges in treating skin cancer in children is to fight the disease itself while keeping the side effects of treatment to a minimum. A child’s body is more vulnerable, so treatment methods must be chosen with the greatest care and effectiveness.
Several clinics in Switzerland specialise in treating paediatric skin cancer. Among them:
- University Children’s Hospital Zurich: One of the leading children’s hospitals in Switzerland, with a team of experienced specialists in paediatric skin cancer.
- Geneva University Children’s Hospital: Another leading children’s hospital in Switzerland, likewise with a team of experienced specialists in paediatric skin cancer.
- Klinik Hirslanden: A private clinic offering a wide range of medical services, including treatment of paediatric skin cancer.
Treating skin cancer in children is a complex, multi-stage process that calls for a specialised approach and highly qualified medical care. CorSwiss acts as a reliable partner in arranging and ensuring high-quality treatment in Switzerland. Contacting CorSwiss gives parents of children with skin cancer transparency and support at every stage of treatment. This includes selecting the most suitable clinic and specialists and organising every aspect of travel and accommodation.