Best treatments for basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma, a malignant tumor that originates in the basal cells of the skin, is usually treated by surgical removal. During this procedure, doctors precisely remove the cancerous lesion along with a surrounding ring of healthy skin tissue to ensure that all cancer cells are completely removed. This surgical approach, called extended resection, is designed to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.

Surgical resection is considered the treatment of choice for basal cell carcinoma because it removes the lesion directly and effectively. Before surgery, doctors will develop a personalized surgical plan based on the size, location and depth of the tumor. During the surgery, the doctor will use meticulous surgical techniques to ensure that the resection margins are clean and no cancer cells are left behind. For larger tumors or tumors located in special locations, doctors may use auxiliary surgical methods such as staged resection or skin grafting to ensure the surgical effect and restore the patient's appearance.

In addition to surgical resection, other treatments are available for basal cell carcinoma, such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, photodynamic therapy, and radiation therapy. These methods may be used as an alternative or adjunct to surgery in some cases. For example, laser treatment or photodynamic therapy may be more appropriate for inoperable patients or those whose tumors are in sensitive areas such as the face. However, these methods are generally less thorough than surgical resection and are associated with higher recurrence rates.

When deciding on a treatment plan, doctors consider a patient's specific circumstances, including the type, stage, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. For most patients with basal cell carcinoma, surgical resection remains the best treatment. Through surgical resection, patients can achieve a higher cure rate and significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.

In short, the best treatment for basal cell carcinoma is surgical resection, but the specific treatment plan should be based on the patient's specific situation. Patients should work closely with their doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan for optimal results.

(Click to view an introduction to drugs for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma)

Reference materials:https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354193