How do you treat basal cell carcinoma?

Treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) depends on several factors, including the size, location, and depth of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Here are the most common treatment options for BCC:

1. Surgical Excision:

This is the most common and effective treatment for BCC. The surgeon removes the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of healthy skin around it to ensure complete removal. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation, and it often results in a good cosmetic outcome.

2. Mohs Micrographic Surgery:

This is a specialized surgical technique commonly used for BCC with high recurrence risk or those located in cosmetically sensitive areas. It involves removing thin layers of tissue and examining them under a microscope until all cancerous cells are removed. This technique aims to preserve healthy tissue while ensuring complete tumor removal.

3. Curettage and Electrodesiccation:

This treatment combines the use of a curette to scrape and remove the tumor and electrocautery to stop the bleeding and destroy any remaining cancer cells. It is often used for small, superficial BCCs.

4. Cryotherapy:

This treatment involves freezing the BCC with liquid nitrogen to destroy the cancerous tissue. It is generally used for small, superficial tumors that are not suitable for surgical removal.

5. Radiation Therapy:

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. This treatment is usually reserved for BCCs that are large or inoperable.

6. Topical Treatments:

For certain types of BCCs, topical treatments may be used. These include:

- Imiquimod: A cream that stimulates the immune system to fight the cancer.

- 5-fluorouracil (5-FU): A cream that kills cancer cells.

- Vismodegib or Sonidegib: Hedgehog pathway inhibitors applied as a gel are used for advanced or metastatic BCC.

The choice of treatment will be made by your healthcare provider based on your individual情况 and the characteristics of your BCC. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for recurrence and ensure complete treatment.