Treatments for Skin Cancer
Skin cancer happens when abnormal skin cells grow out of control. The most common types are:
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Melanoma (More serious but less common)
Treatment options
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is the most common and effective option for many skin cancers.
Excisional Surgery
- Removes the cancer and a margin of healthy skin
- Used for BCC, SCC, and early Melanoma
- Done under local anesthesia
MOHS Surgery (Requires referral to specialist)
- Removes skin in layers while checking for cancer cells under a microscope
- Highest cure rate
- Ideal for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas (E.G., Face, Ears)
Curettage & Electrodessication
- Scraping the tumor and using an electric needle to destroy remaining cells
- Best for small, low-risk cancers
Non-Surgical Treatments
Used when surgery isn’t ideal or for specific types of skin cancers.
Topical Medications
- Imiquimod or 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) creams
- Treats superficial BCC or pre-cancers (Actinic Keratoses)
- Applied at home for several weeks
Cryotherapy
- Liquid nitrogen destroys abnormal cells
- Best for Actinic Keratoses or small superficial cancers
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
- A special cream activated by light
- Effective for superficial cancers and pre-cancers
Radiation Therapy
- High-energy rays used to destroy cancer cells
- Option for patients who can't undergo surgery
Systemic Therapy
(For advanced cases, managed by Oncologist)
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy for advanced Melanoma
Choosing the right treatment
Your treatment plan depends on:
Type, size, and location of the cancer
Risk of recurrence
Your overall health and preferences
After treatment care
Schedule regular skin checks
Use sun protection: sunscreen, tats, protective clothing
Report new or changing skin spots
