Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer and is easily treated if caught early. It may appear as a pearly or waxy, light pink, flesh-colored or brown skin growth, according to Medline Plus. A dermatologist takes a biopsy of the mole or growth, which is examined under a microscope. If the cancer is found, there are several treatments used to remove basal cell carcinomas, depending on the size, depth and location.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
The Mohs technique saves the most amount of healthy tissue that surrounds the cancer and has the highest cure rate, about 98 percent or better, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The surgery is usually performed on skin cancers in difficult areas such as around the eyes, nose, lips and ears. The tumor is removed with a thin layer of tissue around it. The layer is then checked under a microscope to make sure the tissue is cancer-free.
Surgical Excision
The surgery is used for new and recurring tumors, MayoClinic.com explains. The doctor cuts out the cancer and surrounding tissue. It may cause some scarring when normal tissue has to be removed, so skin reconstruction may be necessary.
Electrodesiccation
This surgery is often used for new basal cell carcinomas on the trunk, arms or legs. The doctor uses a scraping instrument to remove the surface of the skin cancer. The base of the tumor is seared away with an electric needle.
Freezing
The cancerous cells can be removed with liquid nitrogen. Freezing is often used for small cancers and for people who have several tumors. It may cause scarring and slow healing. The cancer becomes crusted or scabbed after being sprayed with the liquid nitrogen and eventually falls off.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery allows the doctor to have more control over the depth of the tissue removal, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The outer layer of the skin and deeper areas are removed with a laser. The surgery may be used as a secondary procedure when an earlier procedure does not remove all of the cancer.
Topical Medications
A cream called imiquimond is used for the treatment of superficial basal cell carcinomas, the Skin Cancer Foundation says. The lotion is rubbed into the tumor several times a week for six weeks or more. It helps stimulate the immune system. Another liquid called 5-fluorouracil is also used on superficial basal cells carcinomas. It is rubbed on the tumor twice a day for three to six weeks. Both must be used under careful medical guidance to avoid serious skin irritation and other side effects.
