Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment | Apex Skin Clinic

Melanoma can present in different ways depending on the subtype. It may appear as a dark mole or patch that changes over time, often becoming larger, uneven or itchy. Other signs include sores that do not heal, flaky or rough patches, or red, crusted bumps. These changes often occur on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, arms or back — but can also appear in less obvious locations such as under the nails, between the toes, or on the soles of the feet. Our consultants assess all atypical or changing moles through detailed clinical examination and, where needed, digital dermoscopy and biopsy.

BCC is the most common form of skin cancer in the UK. It often appears as a pearly bump, red patch or scab that does not heal. It tends to grow slowly but can damage surrounding tissue if left untreated. We offer diagnosis and treatment for all subtypes of BCC, using surgical and non-surgical methods, and prioritise cosmetic preservation for lesions on visible areas such as the nose, eyelids or lips.

SCCs may present as thickened, crusted or ulcerated patches of skin — particularly on the face, scalp or hands. These lesions carry a risk of spreading to lymph nodes and require timely intervention. Our clinic offers excision with histological assessment and, where indicated, sentinel lymph node biopsy or lymph node clearance.

Both Bowen’s disease and actinic keratosis are considered precursors to squamous cell carcinoma. Bowen’s disease usually presents as a slowly growing, red and scaly plaque. Actinic keratoses are rough, sun-damaged patches often seen on the scalp, face and forearms. We offer cryotherapy, topical therapies, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) as part of our early intervention strategy.

Keratoacanthomas are dome-shaped growths that may resemble squamous cell carcinoma but often behave less aggressively. Due to their rapid growth and similarity to malignant lesions, they are usually removed for definitive diagnosis. Our team also evaluates similar-looking lesions to ensure appropriate management — whether reassurance, monitoring or removal is needed.

We offer a complete skin cancer screening pathway, including full body skin checks, mole mapping (at Berkshire Grove Hospital), single mole reviews and digital dermoscopy. For patients with a personal or family history of skin cancer, high-risk surveillance is available with regular imaging and follow-up.

Our treatment offering includes both minor and complex surgical excision, cryotherapy, and photodynamic therapy. For high-risk or more advanced cancers, we also perform sentinel node biopsy and lymph node clearance. All surgical care is delivered in a private theatre setting at Berkshire Grove Hospital, with input from specialist plastic surgeons when needed.

Many patients come to us with a single mole that has changed in size, shape or colour. Others notice a non-healing sore, bleeding patch, or new skin lump. Our consultants are highly experienced in distinguishing between benign lesions and skin cancers, using dermoscopy, digital imaging and biopsy where needed.

When excision is required on cosmetically sensitive or functionally important areas, our reconstructive team provides advanced wound closure and grafting options. We also support long-term healing through scar revision procedures and post-surgical skin care guidance.

Our support does not end with treatment. Patients benefit from tailored aftercare, including wound care advice, follow-up skin checks and long-term annual reviews. We provide comprehensive post-operative instructions and ongoing scar management — ensuring optimal recovery and early detection of any recurrence.