Squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) which are small, have well defined borders, and are present in low-risk locations such as the trunk, arms and legs are considered low-risk.
Low-risk SCCs may be treated with standard excision, electrodesiccation and curettage (scraping and burning), or cryosurgery (freezing) with very high cure rates. Some superficial lesions can be treated successfully with prescription creams or with photodynamic therapy (PDT), although there may be a higher risk of incomplete treatment or recurrence.
Intralesional therapy can be considered for certain tumors based on their size, location, and pattern of growth, and is administered directly into the tumor, providing selective drug delivery and preventing most side effects. Properly selected low-risk SCCs can be treated with these modalities with high cure rates, but if they do not respond, surgery is required to ensure complete removal.
Not all SCCs are low risk. Tumors at higher risk of recurring after the treatments listed above are considered high-risk SCCs. These include tumors located in high-risk areas such as on the head and neck, or lesions which are larger in size, have an aggressive microscopic growth pattern, or have recurred after previous treatment.
The treatment of choice for high-risk SCCs is Mohs micrographic surgery, a specialized technique that offers the highest possible cure rates via precise, thorough evaluation of cancerous tissue margins while minimizing removal of healthy tissue. Mohs surgery is performed in the outpatient setting under local anesthesia.
Radiation treatment is considered for properly selected SCCs when surgery isn't possible, is contraindicated, or if the patient prefers another option. Radiation options include external beam radiation, superficial X-ray therapy, and brachytherapy.
Systemic treatment may be considered for selected high-risk SCCs which are locally advanced and may not be treatable with surgery or radiation.
Whatever treatment you need, Désirée Ratner, M.D., P.C., can help. Please reach out to us today at (212) 814-5884 to discuss your skin cancer situation and treatment options. We look forward to speaking with you.
Désirée Ratner, M.D., P.C.
115 East 61st Street, 9th Floor
New York, NY 10065
Phone:
(212) 814-5884
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