Skin Cancer Treatment Cost in India

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is the abnormal growth of skin cells, often triggered by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. It primarily develops on sun-exposed areas but can occur anywhere on the body. The most common types include Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Melanoma—the most aggressive type.

Why Does Skin Cancer Occur?

The main causes of skin cancer include:

• Excessive sun exposure (UV radiation)
• Fair skin type
• Weakened immune system
• Exposure to harmful chemicals
• Genetic predisposition
• History of sunburns or tanning bed use

Skin Cancer Symptoms to Watch Out For – When to Consult a Doctor

Early detection of skin cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Look out for common skin cancer symptoms, such as:

• A new or unusual mole or skin growth
• Changes in the size, color, or shape of an existing mole
• A sore that doesn’t heal
• Persistent itching, bleeding, or crusting
• Dark streaks under fingernails or toenails

If you notice any of these signs, consult a dermatologist or oncologist immediately. Early diagnosis not only improves survival rates but also reduces the overall skin cancer treatment cost in India. Delaying a medical consultation could lead to progression of the disease, requiring more complex and expensive therapies such as surgery, radiation, or immunotherapy. Booking a timely consultation can help you understand your skin cancer treatment options, get accurate staging, and plan the most cost-effective approach to care.

Diagnostic Workup & Staging Costs

An accurate diagnosis and proper staging are crucial to developing an effective treatment plan for skin cancer. The diagnostic workup for skin cancer in India includes clinical examination, skin biopsy, histopathology, and advanced imaging tests like CT scan, MRI, or PET-CT. The cost of skin cancer diagnosis in India is significantly lower than in many other countries, with biopsy and pathology charges starting at ₹2,000, and advanced imaging like PET-CT ranging from ₹20,000 to ₹30,000. In USD terms, the skin cancer diagnostic cost in India is approximately $24 to $360, depending on the tests recommended. Accurate staging ensures the disease is appropriately classified as Stage I to IV, which helps in estimating the total skin cancer treatment price in India and tailoring therapy accordingly. Early diagnosis not only improves outcomes but also reduces the need for expensive treatments later.

Diagnostic tests include:

• Dermatoscopy
• Biopsy (Incisional or Excisional)
• Histopathology
• Imaging (CT, MRI, PET Scan)

Timely and accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective skin cancer treatment. Key diagnostic tests include dermatoscopy, biopsy (incisional or excisional), histopathology, and advanced imaging techniques like CT scan, MRI, and PET scan. These tests play a critical role in detecting cancer type, depth, and spread, which is essential for determining the stage and choosing the best treatment plan. The cost of skin cancer diagnostic tests in India is affordable, starting from ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 for dermatoscopy, ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 for biopsy and histopathology, and ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 for imaging scans, depending on the complexity. Internationally, these would cost between $20 to $360, making India a cost-effective destination for early detection. Investing in the right diagnostics helps avoid delays, enhances treatment outcomes, and reduces the overall skin cancer treatment cost in India.

Estimated Costs:

A thorough diagnostic workup is essential for confirming the presence and stage of skin cancer, which directly influences the treatment plan and success rate. Common investigations include skin biopsy, histopathology, PET/CT scans, and blood tests. In India, the cost of skin cancer diagnostic tests is budget-friendly without compromising on quality. A skin biopsy typically costs ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 ($24–$48), while a histopathology report ranges from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 ($18–$30). Advanced imaging such as a PET/CT scan may cost between ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 ($240–$360), and routine blood tests are priced around ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 ($12–$36). These diagnostics are vital for accurate staging, determining metastasis, and guiding effective treatment decisions, helping reduce the overall skin cancer treatment price in India.

Skin Cancer Treatment Cost in India

The skin cancer treatment cost in India varies based on several factors including the type of cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, or melanoma), the stage of the disease, and the treatment method chosen—surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. On average, the cost of skin cancer surgery in India ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 ($600–$1,800). For more advanced cases requiring chemotherapy, the skin cancer chemotherapy cost in India may range from ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 ($360–$960) per cycle. Immunotherapy using advanced drugs like nivolumab or pembrolizumab can cost ₹1,50,000 to ₹4,00,000 ($1,800–$4,800) per dose. Overall, skin cancer treatment packages in India are 60–80% more affordable compared to Western countries, making India a preferred destination for international patients seeking cost-effective yet world-class care. The skin cancer treatment price in India also includes follow-ups, diagnostics, and rehabilitation, making it a comprehensive value-for-money healthcare solution.

The skin cancer treatment price in India depends on the type, stage, and treatment modality. Options include:

1. Surgery (Excision, Mohs Surgery)

Surgical removal remains one of the most effective treatment options for early-stage skin cancer. Common procedures include excisional surgery, which involves cutting out the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue, and Mohs surgery, a precise technique ideal for facial or high-risk areas where maximum tissue preservation is vital. The cost of skin cancer surgery in India varies depending on the complexity and location of the tumor. Typically, excisional surgery costs between ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 ($600–$1,200), while Mohs surgery ranges from ₹90,000 to ₹1,50,000 ($1,080–$1,800). Compared to global pricing, the skin cancer surgery cost in India offers significant savings without compromising surgical precision and outcomes. Many hospitals also offer comprehensive skin cancer treatment packages in India, making it a cost-effective choice for both domestic and international patients.

2. Chemotherapy for Skin Cancer

Chemotherapy for skin cancer is typically used in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the skin or when surgical options are not viable. This treatment involves the use of anti-cancer drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancerous cells. In India, the skin cancer chemotherapy cost is significantly more affordable compared to Western countries. On average, the cost of chemotherapy for skin cancer in India ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 ($360–$960) per cycle, depending on the drug protocol, stage of cancer, and hospital infrastructure. Common chemotherapy drugs used include cisplatin, 5-fluorouracil, and paclitaxel. Patients often require multiple cycles along with supportive care. Despite being cost-effective, Indian oncology centers maintain high standards in cancer care, making them a preferred destination for international patients looking for affordable and high-quality skin cancer treatment packages in India.

Includes topical and systemic chemo.

3. Immunotherapy (Advanced Melanoma)

For patients diagnosed with advanced melanoma, immunotherapy offers new hope, especially in cases resistant to conventional treatments. Drugs such as Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab are commonly used immune checkpoint inhibitors that help the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Before initiating therapy, Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and genetic mutation profiling (such as BRAF, NRAS, or c-KIT mutations) are crucial to guide personalized treatment plans. In India, NGS testing for melanoma mutations typically costs between ₹25,000 to ₹45,000 ($300–$540). The cost of immunotherapy for skin cancer in India, using drugs like Nivolumab or Pembrolizumab, ranges from ₹1,50,000 to ₹4,00,000 ($1,800–$4,800) per infusion, depending on the brand and dosage. Despite the high efficacy of these therapies, they are often not required in early stages, which makes early diagnosis key to reducing overall skin cancer treatment cost in India. India’s access to FDA-approved immunotherapy drugs, at lower costs, makes it a viable destination for international patients seeking affordable, cutting-edge care.

Immunotherapy like Nivolumab or Pembrolizumab is recommended in advanced cases.

4. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is commonly used for skin cancer patients with more advanced stages or for those who are not candidates for surgery. It involves using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells, especially when tumors are located in difficult-to-operate areas. The cost of radiation therapy for skin cancer in India depends on the stage of cancer and the number of cycles required.

Early-Stage Skin Cancer: For localized skin cancer, radiation therapy typically requires around 5 to 10 cycles. The cost per cycle ranges from ₹2,500 to ₹5,000 ($30–$60), totaling around ₹12,500 to ₹50,000 ($150–$600) for the complete treatment.

Advanced-Stage Skin Cancer: For more advanced cases, radiation therapy may require 15 to 30 cycles. The cost per cycle for advanced-stage radiation therapy is generally higher, ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 ($60–$120), with a total cost of ₹75,000 to ₹3,00,000 ($900–$3,600) depending on the complexity and required sessions.

Patients undergoing radiation therapy will also need to consider follow-up consultations, imaging studies, and potential supportive care, which may add to the skin cancer treatment price in India. However, the overall costs remain much lower than in many Western countries, making India an attractive option for international patients seeking affordable and effective radiation therapy.

When Should You Consult a Specialist?

Seek consultation if you notice:

• A new mole or skin lesion
• Changes in the shape, color, or size of an existing mole
• A sore that doesn’t heal
• Itching, bleeding, or crusting of the skin

Consultation Charges

Before beginning any treatment, an initial consultation with a skin specialist or oncologist is essential. In India, skin cancer consultation charges are highly affordable compared to global standards. The consultation fee for skin cancer specialists in India typically ranges from ₹800 to ₹1,500 for domestic patients and ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 for international patients. This fee usually covers clinical evaluation, basic dermatological screening, and guidance on further diagnostic tests. Opting for a timely consultation not only facilitates early detection but also allows patients to explore customized skin cancer treatment packages in India, which can help reduce the overall skin cancer treatment cost in India. Whether you’re a local resident or traveling from abroad, India’s oncology experts provide world-class care at a fraction of the cost found in the U.S. or Europe.

Rehabilitation & Follow-Up

Skin cancer rehabilitation is a critical part of recovery, helping patients regain function, appearance, and quality of life after surgery, radiation, or other treatments. Rehabilitation may include physical therapy, psychological counseling, and scar management to address functional impairments or cosmetic concerns. In cases of advanced skin cancer, speech therapy or facial reconstruction may also be required.

The cost of skin cancer rehabilitation in India varies depending on the complexity and type of rehabilitation needed. For basic scar management or physical therapy, prices range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 ($60–$180) per session. More advanced rehabilitative procedures such as facial reconstruction may cost between ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000 ($480–$1,200), depending on the extent of surgery required.

Follow-up care is essential to monitor for recurrence and manage any long-term effects. The cost of follow-up consultations in India generally ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 ($12–$36) per visit, with some patients requiring follow-ups for several years. Regular imaging and lab tests may add an additional ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 ($60–$180) per visit, depending on the tests performed.

The success rate of skin cancer treatment in India is high, with early-stage skin cancer showing up to 95% survival rates following surgery and radiation therapy. Advanced stages with immunotherapy or chemotherapy may have varying success, but these treatments can still offer promising outcomes when appropriately managed.

Skin cancer rehabilitation involves:

• Scar revision
• Counseling
• Nutritional support
• Regular skin surveillance

Skin Cancer Treatment Packages in India

We offer comprehensive treatment packages from diagnosis to rehabilitation:

Skin Cancer Treatment Packages in India – Why Costs Differ for Domestic and International Patients

Skin cancer treatment packages in India offer a comprehensive solution that includes diagnostic workup, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, rehabilitation, and follow-up care, all at a significantly lower price than in many Western countries. However, the cost of skin cancer treatment packages in India can differ for domestic and international patients due to several factors.

For domestic patients, the overall cost of treatment is lower, as they do not incur additional expenses related to travel, accommodation, or visa processing. They also benefit from government healthcare schemes or insurance coverage, which can further reduce the out-of-pocket expenses.

In contrast, international patients face additional costs such as visa fees, international travel, and accommodation (hotel stays, meals, etc.). The total treatment package for international patients generally includes a complete service bundle, which not only covers medical procedures but also provides personalized assistance, airport transfers, accommodation, and translator services if needed. As a result, the skin cancer treatment price in India for international patients may be slightly higher, but it is still significantly more affordable compared to treatments in their home countries. Despite the added travel and logistical costs, international patients can still save up to 60-80% on the overall cost when compared to treatments in places like the US or Europe.

Thus, India’s well-established medical tourism industry offers a cost-effective solution for skin cancer treatment, making it an attractive destination for international patients seeking world-class care at a fraction of the price.

Visa, Travel, Food & Accommodation for International Patients

We provide end-to-end assistance for international patients, including:

Why Choose India for Skin Cancer Treatment?

• World-class oncology centers
• Board-certified oncologists
• FDA-approved treatments
• Affordable costs (up to 70% lower than the West)
• No long waiting times

Ready to Begin Your Skin Cancer Treatment Journey in India?

Contact cancer rounds tea, now to get a personalized quote and treatment plan.