Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers – SCC & BCC
Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers are the most common category of skin cancers. They represent the most frequent malignant tumors overall in the human body, surpassing the combined number of cases of lung, colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer.
The two main types of these tumors are Basal Cell Carcinoma (80%) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (20%).
- Specialized Diagnostic Tools & Early Detection Techniques for timely diagnosis
- Personalized treatment options, tailored to each patient’s individual needs
- Comprehensive, Safe & Effective Approaches for Optimal Management of Skin Tumors
- Significant improvement in patients’ quality of life
- Regular Monitoring & Preventive Dermoscopy
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, closely related to excessive exposure to solar radiation. It typically appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face and ears.
Although it progresses slowly and remains localized, if left untreated, it can lead to disfigurement. The main treatment is surgical excision, while other methods such as cryosurgery, radiotherapy, and topical medications are used for more superficial lesions.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer and is also strongly linked to sun exposure. It usually presents as an ulcer that may bleed.
If not treated in time, it may lead to lymph node metastases. The safest treatment is surgical excision, while superficial lesions can be treated with curettage, cryotherapy, and radiotherapy.
Treatment Options
The appropriate treatment depends on the tumor’s type, size, location, depth, the patient’s age, and overall health.
Most treatments are performed under local anesthesia, causing minimal pain during the procedure, with postoperative pain being rare.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
The doctor applies local anesthesia to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue. The procedure is repeated, if necessary, until no cancer cells are detected. The excised sample is immediately sent for microscopic examination.
This method allows for complete tumor removal while preserving healthy tissue and offers a 99% cure rate. It is mainly used for recurrent tumors.
Surgical Excision
Under local anesthesia, the doctor removes the tumor along with a small margin of healthy tissue to ensure that no cancer cells remain.
The sample is then sent for microscopic examination to confirm complete excision. Although not as effective as Mohs surgery, this technique has a 90% cure rate.
Radiation Therapy
X-rays are directed at the tumor, without requiring surgical incision or anesthesia. The treatment requires several sessions and is suitable for tumors difficult to remove surgically or for patients with health problems.
Success rates reach 90%, though radiation-related risks are increased.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
This treatment uses topical 5-ALA, which is absorbed by cancer cells. The following day, light activates the agent, selectively destroying basal cell carcinomas (BCC) with minimal damage to healthy tissue.
This method is not FDA-approved for BCC, with cure rates of 70–90%. Patients must avoid sun exposure for 48 hours due to photosensitivity.
Laser Surgical Removal
CO2 laser therapy removes the skin’s outer layer and part of the deeper tissue with precision. It is bloodless and allows the doctor to control the depth of removal.
It is typically used when other treatments have failed. Despite high success rates, it is not FDA-approved for treating BCC, with success rates similar to PDT.
Topical Medications
Topical treatments for BCC include Imiquimod and 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), both FDA-approved for superficial BCC.
Imiquimod stimulates the immune system to produce interferon, while 5-FU acts as chemotherapy.
Both therapies have success rates of 80–90%, with side effects such as redness and irritation. Studies continue for their use in more aggressive carcinomas.
Summary
Treatment of non-melanoma skin cancers is primarily surgical, though some types can be managed non-surgically.
Despite their low aggressiveness, they are malignant and require timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Dermoscopy is an essential tool for early detection, and long-term monitoring (5 years or lifelong) is crucial, especially in individuals with a history of excessive sun exposure, as they are at higher risk of developing new skin cancers.
Skin Cancer Prevention Methods
To prevent skin cancer, it is recommended to stay in the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and to avoid sunburns, sunbathing, and artificial tanning.
Use sunscreen daily with SPF 15 or higher and reapply every 2 hours. Cover your body with clothing and a hat, and do not expose newborns to the sun.
Regularly check your skin and visit your doctor for an annual check-up.