Basal Cell Carcinoma

In order to confirm a basal cell carcinoma diagnosis, your provider will need to perform a biopsy of the area. If the biopsy confirms the presence of cancer cells, there are several different treatment options available. Choosing the best treatment option depends on the size and location of the lesion, how deep the tumor extends, and the overall health of the patient.

Treatment options include:

• Topical chemotherapy with creams may be useful for very early and thin basal cell carcinomas. After the treatment, your provider will monitor the site for a recurrence. Additional biopsies may be necessary.
• Wide local excision is the most common skin cancer removal treatment. It involves using a scalpel to remove the cancerous growth, along with a small margin of healthy skin around it. Stitches are then placed to close the wound.
• Curettage and electrodessication involves scraping away the top layer of the cancerous tumor with a tool called a curette. An electric needle is then used to cauterize the area. This is performed with a local anesthetic to reduce discomfort. The wound heals slowly over several weeks.
• Mohs surgery is considered the gold standard of skin cancer treatment. This approach involves removing the cancerous tissue one layer at a time and examining it under a microscope to determine whether there are any cancerous cells left. The process continues until no cancer cells remain. The wound will either be sutured or left to heal, depending on many factors.
• Radiation therapy relies on a powerful energy beam to kill cancer cells. This can also be used after surgery if there is an increased risk the cancer will return.

While there are many effective treatments available at Skin & Laser Center of NJ, prevention is always the better option. There are steps everyone can take to help reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. These preventive measures include:

• Avoiding excessive exposure to the sun all year.
• Wearing a hat and UV protective clothing when outdoors.
• Staying under shady areas when outside.
• Avoiding the sun between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Using broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF or 30 or higher, even on overcast days.
• Reapplying sunscreen every two hours and after getting the skin wet.
• Not using tanning beds.

Patients interested in learning more about proactive preventive procedures—including photodynamic therapy and topical chemotherapy—can schedule an appointment with our care providers.