Treating Cancer Treatment of nonmelanomatous cancer of the skin Nonmelnomatous carcinoma of the skin is an extremely common malignancy with an annual incidence in excess of 600,000 new cases a year in the United States. The vast majority of these tumors are of basal cell histology with squamous cell histology occurring less frequently. These lesions are most commonly found on sun exposed areas.
Metastatic disease is exceedingly uncommon and mortality is low.
It is essential to remember, however, that the potential for significant functional, cosmetic and pyschologic morbidity is very real. Fortunately, effective treatment is available. Popular therapeutic modalities include surgery, electrodesiccastion and curettage, Mohs Chemosurgery, Cryosurgery and Radiation therapy. The appropriate treatment should be determined according to tumor size, location and patient preference. Tumors that occur in areas away from the face are usually excised with excellent cure and minimal sequelae.