Understanding Your Skin Cancer Treatment Options: Breaking Down Procedures

Facing a skin cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but understanding your treatment options can help you feel more informed and in control. Depending on the type and stage of skin cancer, your dermatologist may recommend various treatments. In this post, we’ll break down some of the most common procedures used to treat skin cancer in a way that’s easy to understand, so you can feel confident discussing them with your doctor.

1. Mohs Surgery

What it’s for: Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard for treating non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. It’s especially useful for cancers located in cosmetically sensitive areas such as the face, where preserving healthy tissue is important.

How it works: During Mohs surgery, thin layers of skin containing cancer cells are progressively removed and examined under a microscope until only cancer-free tissue remains. This method ensures that all cancer cells are removed while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy skin.

Why it’s effective: Mohs surgery offers the highest cure rate for non-melanoma skin cancers while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

2. Electrodessication and Curettage (EDC)

What it’s for: EDC is commonly used to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in situ (early-stage). It’s effective for superficial cancers, especially on areas like the trunk and limbs.

How it works: The procedure involves two steps: scraping away the cancerous tissue with a curette (a surgical tool), followed by electrodessication, where an electrical current is used to destroy any remaining cancer cells and stop bleeding.

Why it’s effective: EDC is a minimally invasive option that can successfully remove cancerous tissue without the need for stitches. It’s often used for low-risk cancers where cosmetic outcomes are less of a concern.

3. Simple Destruction

What it’s for: This method is often used for pre-cancerous lesions like actinic keratosis or small, superficial basal cell carcinomas.

How it works: Simple destruction involves directly destroying cancerous or pre-cancerous cells using methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), cauterization (burning), or laser ablation.

Why it’s effective: For small, early-stage lesions, simple destruction is quick and effective, often requiring little to no downtime. However, it’s typically only used for more superficial lesions.

4. Radiotherapy (IG-SRT - GentleCure)

What it’s for: This non-invasive therapy is used to treat basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma when surgery isn’t an ideal option, such as in elderly patients or for cancers located in hard-to-treat areas.

How it works: Image-guided superficial radiotherapy (IG-SRT) uses low-dose radiation targeted directly at the cancerous cells. Over a series of treatments, the radiation destroys the cancer while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

Why it’s effective: IG-SRT offers a non-surgical alternative to treating skin cancer, making it ideal for patients looking for a less invasive option with excellent cosmetic outcomes.

5. Topical Treatments

What it’s for: Topical treatments are generally reserved for superficial skin cancers or pre-cancerous conditions like actinic keratosis.

How it works: Prescription creams such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or imiquimod are applied to the affected area. These creams work by destroying cancerous cells over time without surgery.

Why it’s effective: Topical treatments are non-invasive and can be used for patients who are not candidates for surgery. However, these are usually recommended for early-stage or superficial cancers.

6. Immunotherapy

What it’s for: Immunotherapy is often used to treat advanced melanoma and sometimes squamous cell carcinoma.

How it works: This treatment stimulates the body’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells. Drugs like pembrolizumab or nivolumab are commonly used in this approach.

Why it’s effective: Immunotherapy has shown promising results, especially for cancers that have spread beyond the skin. It offers a treatment option for patients with advanced or difficult-to-treat cancers.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

The right treatment for skin cancer depends on many factors, including the type of skin cancer, its location, and your personal health. It’s important to have an open conversation with your dermatologist about the best options for your unique situation.

If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, Naples Dermatology is here to guide you through your treatment options with personalized care and expertise. Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss the best approach for your health.