Basal cell carcinomas account for 8 out of 10 skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. These cancers are similar to cancers that form in the basement layer, or basal layer, of the skin. While it is typically slow growing, if not treated, the cancer can spread and invade lymph nodes, bones and other parts of the body. There are various modes of treatment for this cancer, and the treatment chosen can depend on the location of the tumor, type and extent of the cancer.
Mohs Surgery
According to the American Cancer Society, Mohs surgery has the best cure rate for basal cell carcinoma. It is also a good treatment for basal cell cancers that have recurred or that are deep or fast growing. In this type of surgery, the surgeon removes each individual layer of the tumor and examines each layer microscopically until there are no more abnormal layers. This enables the tumor to be removed while doing little damage to surrounding areas.
Electrodessication and Curettage (EDC)
Electrodessication and curettage (EDC) is an effective treatment for newly formed basal cell carcinomas, but less effective in tumors that have recurred, according to the Mayo Clinic. EDC entails scraping off the surface of the tumor, and then uses an electric needle to burn the base of the tumor. Cancers on the abdomen, legs and arms are typically treated with this procedure.
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision, also called simple excision, is a procedure whereby the tumor is removed, along with a margin of normal skin surrounding it. A wide excision may also be performed, which involves removing a larger margin of healthy skin that surrounds the tumor.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery is also called freezing, and uses liquid nitrogen to freeze cancerous cells and then remove them. While this can be effective, especially for cases in which there are numerous tumors, it can cause crusting, scarring and is slow to heal, according to the Mayo Clinic. It should not be used for treating larger carcinomas, or those on parts of the nose, scalp, eyelids or legs.
Topical Treatments
If the basal cell carcinoma is very superficial, sometimes creams or ointments may be prescribed to treat the cancer. Topical treatments can include tazarotene (Tazorac), imiquimod (Aldara) and 5-fluorouracil (Adrucil). These treatments can cause skin irritation and other side effects, and their use needs to be carefully monitored.
