Treatment of Skin Cancer

If a skin biopsy reveals cancer, the dermatologist has an array of medical and surgical procedures as treatment, depending upon the type of cancer, its location, and the needs of the individual.

Dermatologic surgical treatments include surgical excision, electrodessication and currettage (ED&C) which involves alternately scraping or burning the tumor in combination with low levels of electricity, cryosurgery (freezing using liquid nitrogen), and laser surgery. Mohs micrographic surgery is a special procedure used to remove the whole tumor while sparing as much normal skin as possible.

Other dermatologic treatments include radiation therapy and photodynamic therapy (a chemical is applied to the skin prior to exposure to a light source). Topical chemotherapy products also may be used.