What We Treat

Skin Cancer Specialist Melbourne

Personalised skin cancer treatment, delivered with precision.
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About Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Australia, with non-melanoma skin cancers making up the majority of diagnosed cases each year.

Radiation therapy is a well-established treatment option for non-melanoma skin cancer, particularly when surgery is not suitable. Radiation therapy may be appropriate in the treatment of the following types of skin cancer:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of non-melanoma skin cancer, usually appearing on sun-exposed areas such as the face and neck. It tends to grow slowly and generally remains localised to where it first develops.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) makes up about one-third of non-melanoma skin cancers and often shows as a scaly patch, a sore that does not heal, or a raised lump. Unlike BCC, SCC can sometimes grow more quickly and spread beyond the skin if not treated.
  • Intraepidermal Carcinoma (IEC / Bowen’s disease) is an early form of skin cancer that is limited to the outer layer of the skin. It often looks like a persistent red, scaly, or crusted patch that can slowly enlarge over time if left unmanaged.
  • Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that usually presents as a firm, painless nodule on sun-exposed areas such as the face, head, or neck. It is considered more aggressive than other non-melanoma skin cancers and requires timely medical attention.
  • Melanoma skin cancer is less common and usually requires treatment with surgery or immunotherapy. Radiation therapy may sometimes be used in selected cases, either as part of the initial management or to support other treatments.

Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer Treatment

Facing a skin cancer diagnosis can be a difficult and overwhelming time.

Understanding your treatment options can help you feel better prepared for the journey ahead. The type of skin cancer, its size and location, and your overall health are all considered when deciding the best treatment approach. Utilising careful planning and advanced technologies, our team will develop a targeted treatment plan, guiding and supporting you through each stage of your care.

We provide two main types of radiation therapy for skin cancer:

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Superficial Radiation Therapy

Superficial Radiation Therapy delivers low energy radiation waves, penetrating only a few millimetres to target the surface layers of the skin. This treatment can be used as an alternative where surgery is not suitable. It is often used for cancer sites on sensitive areas such as the face, eyelids, nose or ears where the safety of the surrounding structures is important.

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External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

External Beam Radiation Therapy uses a machine called a linear accelerator to deliver carefully targeted radiation beams. Treatment is based on imaging that maps the exact location of the tumour so the radiation can be delivered with precision, avoiding damage to the healthy surrounding tissue.

Your Treatment Journey

From your initial consultation to your post-treatment follow-ups, we’re here to support you, providing clear information and personalised care to help you navigate the treatment process as smoothly as possible.

01

Referral

You will need to obtain a referral to access treatment with us. Most patients are referred to a radiation oncologist by their general practitioner, dermatologist, plastic surgeon or another specialist. While your doctor may recommend a provider, you may also choose to discuss your preferences for treatment providers with your referring doctor or specialist.

02

Initial Consultation and Treatment Plan

At your first appointment, you will meet with Dr Mathlum who will review your diagnosis and discuss whether radiation therapy is suitable for your circumstances. This is an opportunity to ask questions and talk through your concerns. If radiation therapy is recommended, we will then develop a personalised treatment plan.

03

Treatment

Radiation therapy is delivered over a series of short sessions. During treatment, you will be positioned, usually lying down, while the radiation is carefully targeted to the appropriate area. Our team will monitor your progress closely and be available to provide support throughout the course of treatment.

04

Post Treatment Care

Care doesn't end when your radiation therapy is finished. Follow-up appointments are an important part of your journey, giving us the opportunity to monitor your progress, check on your recovery, and to continue to support you and your health. Our team will work closely with you and your healthcare team to ensure the continuity of your care.

Benefits of Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy may offer several benefits for patients seeking treatment for skin cancer.

  • Precision Technology: Radiation therapy utilises precise image guidance and computer-controlled equipment to accurately deliver radiation beams to targeted areas.
  • Non-invasive: Unlike surgery, radiation therapy does not require incisions. Treatments are delivered externally, and patients are usually able to go about their normal daily activities over the course of therapy.
  • Reduced treatment time: Radiation therapy is performed as an outpatient treatment over several shorter sessions. The total length of your treatment course will be tailored to your particular circumstances, allowing for recovery time between sessions.
  • Accessible cost: Radiation oncology for skin cancer is covered by Medicare and is bulk billed. Consultations may incur a small out-of-pocket fee. Private health insurance is not required for Medicare card holders to access treatment.

Your Skin Cancer Treatment Questions Answered

In many cases, radiation therapy may be suitable as a treatment on its own. It may also be recommended after surgery to reduce the chance of the cancer returning in the same area, or used alongside other treatments such as immunotherapy, depending on the type of skin cancer and individual circumstances.
Radiation therapy may be an option for people who cannot, or prefer not to, undergo surgery. It can also be considered for patients with health conditions that make surgery more complex, for older patients, for those taking anticoagulant medications, or for certain low-risk skin cancers where a non-surgical approach is preferred. Your radiation oncologist will discuss whether this treatment is appropriate in your situation.
During a session, the treatment area will be carefully marked and protected with a small shield to ensure only the cancer site is targeted. You’ll be positioned comfortably while the radiation is delivered, and although the therapists step out of the room to operate the machine, they will be monitoring you the entire time. Treatment itself usually only takes a few minutes, and once finished, the markings and shield are removed, and you can go about your day.
No. Radiation therapy for skin cancer is delivered as an outpatient treatment, meaning you come in for your session and return home the same day.
Side effects from radiation therapy often begin about a week after treatment starts and may last for several weeks before improving. The skin in the treated area can become red, itchy, or sore, and may scab or peel before it heals. In some cases, hair in the treated area may be lost. Your care team will guide you through what to expect in your situation and support you in managing any effects that arise.
The number of visits and overall schedule are individualised. Planning considers the type of cancer, the depth and location of the area being treated, and other clinical factors. Your plan will be discussed with you before treatment starts, and any questions or concerns can be addressed at your planning appointment and throughout the process.
Many people are able to continue usual activities, sometimes with adjustments depending on how the skin responds and how they are feeling. Your care team can provide guidance tailored to your job, travel, and day-to-day routines.

Why Choose Us?

Collaborative Treatment Approach

We work with you and your referring practitioner to coordinate your care. Complex cases are discussed with a team of specialists across different disciplines to determine the best treatment options for each patient.

Comprehensive Care

We make sure you are fully informed, confident and comfortable throughout your treatment journey. Our team are always on hand to answer any questions or concerns and to ensure you feel safe and cared for.

Experienced Specialists

Treatment at Precision Radiotherapy Victoria is led by Dr Maitham Mathlum, a specialist radiation oncologist with 25 years in clinical practice. Our team includes experienced nurses, therapists and support staff who work together to provide the best possible patient outcomes.

Referrals from Practitioners

Radiation Oncologist

We welcome referrals from general practitioners, dermatologists, surgeons, and other specialists seeking collaborative care for patients.
Our team is committed to providing timely access to consultation and treatment and clear communication throughout the process. We work together to ensure patients receive well-coordinated, comprehensive care and support at every stage of their treatment.

25 Years

Clinical Experience

Clinical Trials

Active Research

Training

Radiology Education

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Support at Every Step

At Precision Radiotherapy Victoria, we’re committed to providing skin cancer treatment that combines advanced technologies with genuine support and care. From your first appointment through to follow-up, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today for more information or speak to your doctor about a referral.

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