Advanced Skin Cancer: Chemotherapy and Its Side Effects

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. While early-stage skin cancer can often be treated with surgery or radiation therapy, advanced cases may require chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is a powerful treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. However, the thought of chemotherapy can be daunting for many patients, as it comes with a range of potential side effects and unknowns. This blog takes a closer look at chemotherapy for skin cancer, including the drugs used for treatment, possible side effects, and tips for managing symptoms.

When is Chemotherapy Recommended for Advanced Skin Cancer Treatment?

Chemotherapy may be used in the treatment of advanced skin cancer when cancer cells have spread beyond the original site of the skin cancer or when other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy, have not been effective. It may also be used in cases where skin cancer is large, aggressive or fast-growing. Chemotherapy drugs can be administered in a variety of ways, including intravenously (through a vein), orally (by mouth) or topically (applied to the skin). The type and dosage of chemotherapy used will depend on various factors, including the type and stage of skin cancer, the patient's overall health and any other medical conditions they may have. In some cases, chemotherapy may be used in combination with other treatments such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy, to improve the effectiveness of the treatment and increase the patient's chances of survival. Overall, the decision to use chemotherapy will be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the individual patient's needs and circumstances.

Types of Chemotherapy Drugs Used to Treat Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs when melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin, become cancerous. When melanoma has spread to other parts of the body, chemotherapy may be used to help kill the cancer cells. Chemotherapy for melanoma typically involves the use of drugs that are designed to target rapidly dividing cancer cells. One of the most commonly used chemotherapy drugs for melanoma is Dacarbazine (DTIC). This drug has been used for several decades and is effective in treating some cases of melanoma. Other chemotherapy drugs that may be used to treat melanoma include Temozolomide, Nab-paclitaxel, Paclitaxel, Cisplatin and Carboplatin.

Dacarbazine (also called DTIC)

Dacarbazine is an alkylating agent used to treat metastatic melanoma. It works by damaging the DNA in cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. It is typically given intravenously over several weeks and can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting and low blood cell counts.

Temozolomide

Temozolomide is an oral chemotherapy drug that is sometimes used to treat advanced melanoma. Like DTIC, it works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, which can slow or stop their growth. Temozolomide is typically given in combination with other drugs and may be used in conjunction with radiation therapy.

Nab-Paclitaxel

Nab-paclitaxel is a newer chemotherapy drug that has shown promise in treating advanced melanoma. It works by interfering with the ability of cancer cells to divide and grow. Clinical trials have shown that nab-paclitaxel can be effective in treating melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body. However, it may cause side effects such as fatigue, hair loss and low white blood cell counts.

Paclitaxel

Paclitaxel is an effective chemotherapy drug that has proven successful in treating metastatic melanoma. Its effectiveness in inhibiting tumour growth makes it an important therapeutic choice for treating the most aggressive and deadly forms of skin cancer. Paclitaxel is typically administered intravenously and is often used in combination with other drugs to maximise its effectiveness.

Cisplatin

Cisplatin is an effective chemotherapy treatment for melanoma. It is known for its potent anticancer effects, helping to destroy cancer cells in melanoma patients. In many cases, cisplatin is given in combination with other treatments, providing better and more complete relief from cancer. It is administered intravenously and can have side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and kidney damage, which may limit its use in some patients.

Carboplatin

Carboplatin is a powerful chemotherapeutic agent often used in the treatment of melanoma. It is an effective tool to help shrink and even eradicate melanoma lesions. It is administered intravenously and is sometimes used in combination with other treatments such as surgery or radiation. It has minimal side effects and offers promising results for many people suffering from melanoma.

Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. While chemotherapy can be effective in treating cancer, it can also cause side effects.Chemotherapy side effectscan vary depending on the type ofchemotherapy drugused, the dosage and the individual patient's overall health. Some common side effects of chemotherapy include:

• Hair loss: One of the most common and distressing side effects of chemotherapy is hair loss. Hair can thin out, start falling out or completely bald. Wearing a wig or scarf or shaving the head can help manage this side effect.
• Fatigue:Patients undergoing chemotherapy may experience extreme fatigue, even after long rest and adequate sleep. Resting, napping and light exercise can help manage fatigue.
• Nausea and vomiting: Chemotherapy may also cause nausea and vomiting, which can lead to loss of appetite and dehydration. Anti-nausea medications can help manage these symptoms.
• Immune suppression: Chemotherapy drugs may weaken the immune system and can cause the body to become vulnerable to infections. Avoiding sick people and practising good hygiene can help manage this chemotherapy side effect.
• Mouth sores:Chemotherapy can cause painful sores in the mouth and throat. Using a soft toothbrush and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can help manage these sores.

While chemotherapy can cause side effects, it is important to remember that these side effects are temporary and will typically improve once treatment is completed. Working closely with a healthcare team can help manage these side effects and ensure the best possible outcome from chemotherapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Stage of Skin Cancer Requires Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is usually used in the later stages of skin cancer when the cancer cells have begun to spread beyond the skin or to other organs. In these cases, the treatment aims to destroy the cancer cells throughout the body, to try to stop the cancer from progressing further.

What is the Duration of Chemotherapy for Skin Cancer?

Chemotherapy for skin cancer can vary from 1 to 6 months, depending on the stage of cancer and the type of treatment plan prescribed. It may include an individual treatment regimen with topical medications, creams and lotions, as well as systemic therapies with pills and intravenous (IV) infusions of drugs. Radiation may also be used to treat skin cancer. Treatment length is often shorter if the skin cancer detectionis early and located in just one area of the body.

How Does Chemotherapy Damage the Body?

During treatment, chemotherapy drugs target cancer cells but can also harm normal cells that grow and divide quickly, such as hair follicles and the cells lining the digestive tract. As a result, common side effects of chemotherapy may include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, mouth sores and other digestive issues. Chemotherapy can also cause a decrease in blood cell counts, making patients more prone to infection and fatigue. While these side effects can range from mild to severe, the body can often repair any damage caused by the drugs over time.