This information represents the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.
The treatment information in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your cancer care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.
Your doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about your treatment options.
General treatment information
The next few sections describe the types of treatments used for non-melanoma skin cancers. This is followed by a discussion of the typical treatment options based on the type of skin cancer.
The treatments described in these sections are those used for actinic keratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and/or Merkel cell carcinoma. Other skin cancers, such as melanoma, lymphoma of the skin, Kaposi sarcoma, and other sarcomas are treated differently and are discussed in separate documents.
Fortunately, most basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas can be cured with fairly minor surgery or other types of local treatments.
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