Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that causes the most common skin cancer, accounting for about 75% of all cases. It can be found on any part of the body, but it is more likely to occur on parts exposed to direct sunlight, such as the head, neck, and hands. The cause of basal cell carcinoma is not known, but it has been linked to UV radiation from both natural and artificial sources. Fortunately, many treatments are available with varying success rates depending on severity. Here are four main ones. First, pay a visit to Manhattan Dermatology.
Topical Cream with Anti-Cancer Drugs
This is an effective treatment for basal cell carcinoma, less than 1cm in size. Many topical creams can clear up skin cancer, including 5-Fluorouracil, Imiquimod, Diclofenac, Cimetidine, and Mitomycin-C. The cream is applied to the affected areas two to three times daily until it clears. It usually takes up to four weeks for visible results, but this could take longer if the cancer is more advanced.
Cryosurgery to Freeze and Kill Cancer Cells
Several skin cancers are removable by using cryosurgery. It works by applying liquid nitrogen to destroy cancer cells. The process involves spraying the surface being treated with an ethane-Freon mixture to lower the temperature, followed by another spray containing nitrous oxide, which is what makes the mixture “cold.” It’s important not to freeze the skin or cause tissue damage.
Cryotherapy is often preferred over other treatment options because it can treat hard-to-reach areas like between toes and under fingernails. It’s also suitable for ill or frail people since there is little or no bleeding during cryotherapy. Many people only need one cryotherapy session, but more sessions may be necessary depending on the severity of the basal cell carcinoma.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for Early Cases of Basal Cell Carcinoma
PDT is an effective treatment for basal cell carcinoma, but specific criteria must be met before PDT can be used. Firstly, patients must have early cases, or cancer may not respond to PDT treatments.
For best results, basal cell carcinomas should be no larger than 2 cm in size with a red color and a raised structure. As well as meeting the criteria, basal cell carcinomas need to be in an area of the body that can be easily treated, such as on or near the face.
Radiation for Severe Cases of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Radiation treatment is not usually used to treat basal cell carcinomas, but radiation may be the best option for severe cases. The cancer cells are removed by Mohs Surgery or cryotherapy first, and then radiation is applied.
Radiation can reduce tumor size, prevent cancer recurrence and help stop bleeding, but it’s not suitable for all patients. Radiation treatment can cause a sunburn-type reaction on the treated area, and it may take up to 24 hours before symptoms appear after each round of treatment.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, and it can occur on any part of the body, but it is more likely to occur on parts exposed to direct sunlight. There are many treatments available for basal cell carcinoma, but the most effective treatment depends on the severity of the cancer.
