Comparing treatments for nonmelanoma skin cancer

Most nonmelanoma skin cancer can be cured if it is found and treated early. The goal of treatment is to completely remove the cancer. But the method of removal will differ depending on the experience of your health professional and the type of cancer you have.

**Advantages and disadvantages of common treatments for nonmelanoma skin cancer**
Treatment	Advantages	Disadvantages
Cryosurgery	Minimal equipment needed Simple to perform Cost-effective No restriction of activity after surgery	Margin around cancer may not be free of cancer Moderately painful Slow healing Potential for scarring No skin tissue for diagnosis
Curettage and electrosurgery	Minimal equipment needed Simple to perform Cost-effective No restriction of activity after surgery	Margin around cancer may not be free of cancer Slow healing Potential for scarring
Excision	Margin around cancer more likely to be free of cancer Tissue available for diagnosis More rapid healing Good cosmetic results	Healthy skin tissue around cancer (margin) must be removed Activity restriction after surgery if skin graft or flap is needed
Mohs micrographic surgery	Best chance of cancer-free margins Healthy skin tissue is preserved Tissue available for diagnosis Highest cure rates Good cosmetic results	Specialized training and facilities needed Increased expense Takes more time to make sure margins are cancer-free Activity restriction after surgery if skin graft or flap is needed

Credits

Author	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Last Updated	November 22, 2006

Author:Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH

Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology

Last Updated: 11/22/2006

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