Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment
Treatment involves a combination of therapies tailored to the individual patient based on the type, stage, and other biological factors of the cancer.
- Surgical Excision: The tumor and some surrounding tissue are surgically removed to ensure all cancerous cells are eliminated. This method has a high cure rate.
- Mohs Surgery: This technique involves removing the skin cancer layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope until no abnormal cells remain. Mohs surgery is particularly useful for cancers that have a high risk of recurrence or are located in areas where it's important to preserve as much healthy tissue as possible, like around the eyes.
- Cryotherapy: This treatment uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and kill cancerous cells. It’s generally used for smaller or superficial BCCs.
- Topical Treatments: Medications in the form of creams or gels, such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and imiquimod, are applied directly to the skin. These are suitable for very superficial BCCs and are used over several weeks.
- Radiation Therapy: This may be used for larger basal cell carcinomas or for tumors that are difficult to completely remove with surgery. Radiation therapy can also be an option for patients who are not good candidates for surgery.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): PDT involves the application of a photosensitizing agent to the skin, which is then activated by a specific wavelength of light, killing the cancer cells.
- Laser Surgery: Laser can be used to treat superficial BCCs, vaporizing the cancer cells with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Effective basal cell carcinoma treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach involving GW Cancer Center dermatologists, surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care tailored to the patient's unique needs. Regular follow-up and monitoring by your GW Cancer Center multidisciplinary team are essential to assess the treatment's effectiveness and manage any side effects or complications.
