What Is the Treatment for Skin Cancer? Options, Recovery, and More
Skin cancer is among the most common forms of cancer worldwide, particularly in regions with high sun exposure. Thankfully, when detected early, most types of skin cancer are highly treatable. However, the right course of treatment varies depending on the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health.
In this article, we explore the various treatment options for skin cancer, including surgical and non-surgical methods, and how each is selected based on the patient's needs.
Understanding Skin Cancer Types
Before diving into treatments, it’s crucial to understand the three main types of skin cancer:
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common and slow-growing form. Rarely spreads but can cause local tissue damage.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Can grow deeper into the skin and has a small risk of metastasis.
- Melanoma: The most aggressive type. Can spread to other organs if not caught early.
Each type may require a different approach to treatment.
Surgical Treatment Options
1. Excisional Surgery
The most common method of treating non-melanoma skin cancers. The tumour and a margin of surrounding healthy skin are surgically removed.
Used for: BCC, SCC, early melanomas
Recovery: Usually outpatient. Healing takes 1–2 weeks with minimal scarring in most cases.
2. Mohs Micrographic Surgery
A precise surgical technique where cancer is removed layer by layer and examined microscopically until no cancer cells remain.
Used for: BCC, SCC on cosmetically sensitive areas (face, ears, etc.)
Advantages: High cure rate, preserves healthy tissue, minimal scarring
3. Curettage and Electrodessication
The tumour is scraped off with a curette and the area is treated with an electric needle to destroy remaining cancer cells.
Used for: Small BCCs and SCCs
Limitation: Less precise; not suitable for aggressive or deep cancers
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
1. Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells. Often used when surgery is not an option or for elderly patients.
Used for: SCC, BCC in challenging locations
Side effects: Skin irritation, fatigue, long-term risk of secondary cancers
2. Cryotherapy (Cryosurgery)
Involves freezing cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen. The tissue blisters and falls off over time.
Used for: Actinic keratoses, superficial BCCs
Benefits: Minimally invasive, fast
3. Topical Treatments
Certain skin cancers can be treated with prescription creams that boost the immune system or directly kill cancer cells.
- Imiquimod (Aldara): Stimulates immune response
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): Chemotherapy cream that destroys abnormal cells
Used for: Superficial BCCs or precancerous lesions
4. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
A chemical agent is applied to the skin and activated with light to destroy cancer cells.
Used for: Actinic keratoses, early BCCs
Pros: Minimally invasive and can treat multiple spots at once
Advanced Treatments for Melanoma
1. Immunotherapy
This treatment helps the body’s immune system fight cancer. Drugs like checkpoint inhibitors allow immune cells to attack melanoma cells more effectively.
- Examples: Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), Nivolumab (Opdivo)
Used for: Advanced or metastatic melanoma
Side effects: Inflammation, fatigue, autoimmune responses
2. Targeted Therapy
Targets specific gene mutations (e.g., BRAF) found in melanoma cells. These drugs inhibit the growth and spread of cancer by interfering with tumour-specific pathways.
- Examples: Dabrafenib, Trametinib
Requires: Genetic testing of tumour tissue
3. Chemotherapy
Now less commonly used for melanoma due to the rise of targeted therapies and immunotherapy, chemotherapy may still be offered in some cases.
Treatment by Stage
- Stage 0 (In situ): Local treatments like excision, cryotherapy, or topical medications
- Stage I–II: Surgical excision or Mohs surgery
- Stage III (Spread to lymph nodes): Surgery plus immunotherapy or radiation
- Stage IV (Metastatic): Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, or palliative care
Aftercare and Monitoring
Even after successful treatment, skin cancer patients must be vigilant. Regular follow-ups help detect recurrences or new cancers early.
Post-treatment tips include:
- Annual skin checks by a dermatologist
- Monthly self-examinations at home
- Sun protection using SPF 30+ sunscreen
- Avoiding tanning beds and excessive sun exposure
Emotional Support and Coping
Being diagnosed with cancer can cause anxiety, fear, and emotional distress. Joining support groups, speaking with a therapist, or leaning on friends and family can help the emotional recovery process.
Some hospitals also provide counselling services and survivorship programmes to aid in both physical and emotional healing.
Real-Life Example
Case: Raj, a 62-year-old man, was diagnosed with a basal cell carcinoma on his cheek. His dermatologist recommended Mohs surgery due to its location. The cancer was removed in a single session with minimal scarring. Raj now uses daily sunscreen and attends six-monthly skin checks to stay ahead of any future issues.
FAQs About Skin Cancer Treatment
Is skin cancer always treated with surgery?
No. While surgery is common, non-surgical methods like cryotherapy, radiation, and topical creams may be used depending on cancer type and location.
Can skin cancer come back after treatment?
Yes. Skin cancer survivors have a higher risk of recurrence, especially if they’ve had sun damage. Regular follow-ups are crucial.
How long is recovery after skin cancer treatment?
Most outpatient surgeries heal within 2–3 weeks. Advanced treatments may require longer recovery and ongoing care.
Is melanoma curable?
Melanoma is highly curable if detected early. Once it spreads, it becomes more complex but is still manageable with advanced therapies.
Does insurance cover skin cancer treatment?
Most health insurance plans cover standard treatments like surgery and follow-up care. Advanced therapies may require pre-approval.