Targeted Skin Cancer Treatment: Advanced Proton Therapy
At Maryland Proton Treatment Center (MPTC), we offer advanced treatment for skin cancer using proton therapy.
This precise radiation therapy is especially valuable for patients with tumors in sensitive areas such as the head, neck, and face. It allows us to treat skin cancer effectively while protecting nearby healthy tissue.
If you’re looking for skin cancer treatment options beyond surgery, our expert team can help you explore a plan that’s safe, effective, and highly personalized.
The Advantages of Proton Therapy for Skin Cancer
Proton therapy for skin cancer provides distinct benefits, including:
- Pencil beam scanning technology for millimeter-level precision.
- Reduced radiation exposure to eyes, brain, and facial structures.
- Safer re-irradiation for recurrent or previously treated cancers.
- Minimized risk of hair loss or scarring near treated areas.
- Improved long-term outcomes for high-risk or complex cases.
Why Choose Maryland Proton Treatment Center for Your Skin Cancer Treatment?
Patients turn to MPTC for expert, patient-first care. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Cost-neutral care: Most patients pay the same or less than with traditional radiation. Learn more about cost and insurance options
- Extensive experience: Over 6,000 patients treated with a high standard of care.
- 92% insurance approval rate: Our team assists with pre-authorization and financial planning.
- Advanced technology: State-of-the-art proton therapy systems and access toclinical trials.
- Personalized support: Compassionate care at every stage of your journey.
Is Proton Therapy Right for Your Type of Skin Cancer?
Our expert team carefully evaluates each case to determine if proton therapy is the best way to treat skin cancer. It may be recommended for the following types:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Proton therapy is ideal for large or recurrent BCCs, particularly in areas like the face or scalp where preserving healthy tissue is essential.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Advanced or aggressive SCCs that have spread to nearby areas can be effectively treated with proton therapy.
- Melanoma: While typically treated with surgery and immunotherapy, proton therapy can be used when radiation is needed, especially in sensitive or metastatic cases.
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma: This rare, aggressive cancer often requires radiation. Proton therapy delivers focused treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.
- Kaposi Sarcoma: Common in immunocompromised patients, this form responds well to the precision of proton therapy in controlling lesions.
- Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma: Often found near the eye, this rare skin cancer benefits from proton therapy’s ability to protect delicate surrounding structures.
Proton therapy is also beneficial if:
- You have localized or non-metastatic skin cancer needing radiation post-surgery.
- Your cancer has returned after prior treatment, allowing for safe re-irradiation.
- You’re facing a high-risk or treatment-resistant cancer.
- You need care in sensitive areas, such as near the eye, nose, or mouth.
Understanding the Proton Therapy Treatment Process
At the Maryland Proton Treatment Center, every skin cancer treatment plan is customized to your unique diagnosis and health needs. We aim to deliver highly targeted care while supporting your comfort and well-being.
Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Consultation: During your initial consultation, you will meet with our expert team, including a radiation oncologist, to review your medical history and determine if proton therapy is right for you. Our radiation oncologists are trained to deliver radiation in a variety of modalities, which means they can discuss all radiation options to ensure you are comfortable with your care plan. If proton therapy is right for you, our billing department will help find out if your insurance covers proton therapy.
CT Simulation and Treatment Planning: We use advanced imaging to map your tumor and design a precise, personalized plan. These scans help us prepare your body position to ensure accurate proton therapy treatment.
Daily Treatment: Proton therapy begins within two weeks of the simulation. These outpatient sessions are typically 30 minutes, five days a week, with most patients returning to daily activities right after. The length of treatment depends on your specific treatment plan but generally lasts three to eight weeks.
Completion: Upon completing your last treatment, you will ring the bell at the “Ring in Hope” wall, a symbol that closes the door on this chapter of life and opens the door to a healthy future.
Follow-Up and Ongoing Monitoring: Within a month of your final treatment, you will come back for a follow-up visit to track your progress. Following that, imaging and regular check-ins help us further track your progress and make any needed adjustments.
