This modernized overview explains treatment choices for non-melanoma skin cancers, emphasizing early detection. It covers curettage and electrodessication, standard excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, photodynamic therapy, topical imiquimod, cryotherapy, and radiotherapy, and notes follow-up and prevention. The anecdote of a delayed case illustrates when grafting may be required.

A warning from the porch

Joe let a crusty lesion on his cheek go for too long. By the time he saw a doctor it had grown close to his eye and required wide excision and a skin graft because primary closure would have pulled the eyelid. If Joe had sought care earlier, less invasive options might have been possible.

How clinicians choose a treatment

Treatment depends on the type of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma), tumor size, location, and the patient's health and preferences. For non-melanoma skin cancers on the face, preserving function and appearance is a priority.

Common treatments

Curettage and electrodessication (ED&C)

Providers scrape away the visible tumor with a curette and then use electric current to control bleeding and destroy residual tumor cells. ED&C is fast and often used for small, well-defined surface lesions. Stitches are usually not needed.

Surgical excision

The surgeon removes the tumor with a margin of normal-looking skin and closes the wound with stitches. Excision suits many nodular or infiltrative tumors. Large defects may need a skin graft or local flap, as in Joe's case.

Mohs micrographic surgery

Mohs surgery removes the tumor layer by layer while the surgeon examines each layer under a microscope. This technique gives the highest margin control and conserves healthy tissue, so it's preferred for high-risk, recurrent, or cosmetically sensitive facial cancers.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

A topical photosensitizer (commonly aminolevulinic acid or methyl aminolevulinate) is applied to selected superficial lesions, then activated with a specific light source. PDT can offer excellent cosmetic results for superficial tumors, but outcomes depend on tumor type and treatment protocol. Clearance rates vary in the literature and depend on lesion selection and follow-up length.

Topical immunotherapy (imiquimod)

Imiquimod cream stimulates a local immune response and is used for some superficial basal cell carcinomas and in situ squamous cell carcinomas. Typical regimens and response rates depend on formulation, lesion size, and location - check current product labeling and guidelines for approved dosing and expected clearance rates. 1

Cryotherapy

Liquid nitrogen produces controlled freezing (often a double freeze-thaw cycle) to destroy small, superficial lesions. Healing may leave a white or lighter area of skin.

Radiotherapy

External beam radiotherapy remains an option for patients who cannot undergo surgery or for lesions in difficult locations. Fractionated treatment over several sessions generally yields better cosmetic outcomes than a single large dose.

Follow-up and prevention

All treated patients need regular skin checks because new or recurrent cancers can appear. Sun protection (broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, shade) reduces risk.

Original article by Caroline Gainer (2006). This version updates clinical terminology and treatment context to reflect current practice.

  1. Verify current clearance rate ranges and indications for photodynamic therapy in superficial non-melanoma skin cancers.
  2. Confirm approved imiquimod regimens and published response/clearance rates for superficial basal cell carcinoma and Bowen disease.
  3. Check recommended follow-up intervals post-treatment in recent dermatology guidelines.

FAQs about Treatment For Skin Cancer

When is Mohs surgery recommended?
Mohs is recommended for high-risk, recurrent, or ill-defined skin cancers on cosmetically or functionally important areas (for example, the nose, eyelids, lips, or ears) because it removes cancer while preserving healthy tissue.
Can topical creams like imiquimod cure skin cancer?
Topical imiquimod can clear some superficial basal cell carcinomas and in situ squamous cancers, but effectiveness depends on correct patient and lesion selection and adherence to the treatment course; surgical options may still be preferred for many tumors. Check current guidelines and product labeling for dosing and outcomes.
Is photodynamic therapy a good option for facial lesions?
PDT can produce excellent cosmetic results for carefully selected superficial lesions on the face. Its suitability depends on tumor type and size; long-term clearance varies by study and requires appropriate follow-up.
What are common side effects of cryotherapy?
Cryotherapy can cause blistering, temporary pain, and hypopigmentation (a permanent white mark) in the treated area.
How often should I have my skin checked after treatment?
Most clinicians recommend at least annual full skin exams after treatment; higher-risk patients often need exams every 3-6 months initially. Individual follow-up plans should be set with your dermatologist.

News about Treatment For Skin Cancer

Skin cancer 101: what everyone should know - Cancer Research UK - Cancer News [Visit Site | Read More]

Scientists discover how to remove skin cancer’s protective armour and stop it spreading - The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) [Visit Site | Read More]

Gordon Ramsay says he had treatment to remove skin cancer - BBC [Visit Site | Read More]

Skin cancer: what it looks like and how to minimise your risk - saga.co.uk [Visit Site | Read More]

The Christie recruits its first patient for a new non-melanoma skin cancer trial - The Christie NHS Foundation Trust [Visit Site | Read More]

Nano vesicular approaches for the treatment of skin cancer - ScienceDirect.com [Visit Site | Read More]

Gordon Ramsay reveals he had treatment to remove skin cancer - Sky News [Visit Site | Read More]

At 15, he could revolutionize skin cancer treatment with a simple soap - Futura, Le média qui explore le monde [Visit Site | Read More]