Dermato-oncologist and other specialized oncologists: who they are and what they do

The terms "dermato-oncologist", "uro-oncologist" and "gynecologic oncologist" often catch people off guard: it is unclear whether to see a general specialist or go straight to an oncologist. Below is an explanation of how the specialized areas of oncology are structured. This text is for reference: it explains the logic of the specialties and does not replace diagnosis.

Who an oncologist is and why specialized areas are needed

Oncology is the branch of medicine that studies benign and malignant tumors, the mechanisms of their development, and methods of prevention, diagnosis and treatment. A tumor can arise in almost any organ, so the specialty is divided into dozens of areas: oncohematology — tumors of the blood and blood-forming organs, neuro-oncology — tumors of the nervous system and brain. Tumors can arise in different organs, so oncology distinguishes separate areas by organs and systems.

Dermato-oncologist: how they differ from a dermatologist

Oncodermatology studies skin tumors; such a doctor is called a dermato-oncologist. A dermatologist works with the skin as a whole. A dermato-oncologist deals with the same organ but focuses on neoplasms: changed moles, non-healing ulcers and wounds. Skin tumors are divided into melanoma and non-melanoma cancer: the former is less common and usually more serious. An appointment listed as "consultation with a dermatologist-oncologist" means a visit regarding a skin neoplasm.

The myth "a mole has changed — so it's melanoma" confuses a symptom with a diagnosis. Many of the listed symptoms are often caused by other conditions, so their presence does not mean cancer for certain, but a changed mole should be shown to a doctor — early detection of a tumor can make treatment easier.

Gynecologic oncologist and breast oncologist

Gynecologic oncology deals with tumors of the female reproductive system, oncomammology — with tumors of the breast; such a doctor is called a breast oncologist. The list of tumors includes cancer of the cervix, ovaries, uterine body and breast. Signals in this area: unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding after menopause, a lump in the breast. A gynecologist is a doctor for the female reproductive system as a whole, a gynecologic oncologist — for its tumors.

Uro-oncologist and oncologist-urologist: what such doctors are called

Sources distinguish the following areas: uro-oncology — tumors of the urinary system and bladder, oncoandrology — tumors of the male reproductive system, onconephrology — tumors of the kidneys. A urologist is a doctor for the urinary system as a whole, a uro-oncologist — for its tumors. In practice, the terms "uro-oncologist" and "oncologist-urologist" are often used as close equivalents. Reasons for a check-up: blood in the urine, urgency, pain during urination, blood in the semen.

Oncologist-otolaryngologist, gastroenterologist and dental oncologist

The ENT area covers tumors of the larynx, nose and paranasal sinuses, and nasopharynx; the dental area — of the oral cavity; the gastroenterological area — of the esophagus, stomach, intestines and liver. Symptoms: problems with swallowing, persistent hoarseness, a non-healing ulcer in the mouth, frequent or very painful heartburn, blood in the stool.

When a consultation with a specialized oncologist is needed

A referral to a specialized oncologist arises from the initial appointment: if the doctor considers the symptoms a possible sign of a tumor, they may give an urgent referral to a specialist for further examinations. Examinations: history-taking, physical examination, blood tests, imaging, screenings such as mammography and colonoscopy, biopsy. No single test diagnoses cancer on its own.

• a new lump or swelling in any part of the body;
• a change in a mole or non-healing skin changes;
• blood in the urine or stool, unexplained bleeding or bruising;
• persistent difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, a non-healing ulcer in the mouth.

A consultation with a specialized oncologist is not in itself a reason to call an ambulance. 103 or 112 — if the condition is life-threatening: vomiting blood, coughing up blood, difficulty breathing, persistent or worsening shortness of breath.

This material is for reference: it helps to understand the names of the specialties but does not replace a doctor's consultation.

This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer