Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) account for the majority of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC).
2 in 3 Australians will develop NMSC in their lifetime.
BCC often slowly enlarge and can ulcerate and bleed if left untreated. They do not usually spread and once treated are generally cured. Treatments may include topical immunotherapy, photodynamic therapy, surgery or radiotherapy.
SCC often grow more rapidly and develop a crusted surface. Some have the potential to spread beyond the skin and prompt treatment is therefore required. Treatments may include topical chemotherapy, surgery or radiotherapy.
Other tumours are rare and only account for a few per cent of non-melanoma skin cancer. These include Merkel Cell Carcinoma and Atypical Fibroxanthoma. Prompt treatment of these lesions is required and may involve surgery and/or radiotherapy.
Pre-cancerous lesions and superficial skin cancers may be treated without the need for surgery.
These include lesions such as actinic keratoses; some in situ squamous cell carcinomas/Bowen’s disease/Bowenoid keratoses; leucoplakia; and some superficial basal cell carcinomas.
Various non-surgical treatments include:
- Liquid Nitrogen Cryotherapy
- 5-Fluorouracil Cream (Efudix TM)
- Imiquimod Cream (Aldara TM)
- Ingenol Mebutate Gel (Picato TM)
- Laser and Light Treatments (Photodynamic therapy; Intense Pulsed Light; CO2 laser)
Your dermatologist at Perth Dermatology Clinic will advise you on which treatment is most appropriate for you.
