Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

Overview

Mayo Clinic physicians have extensive experience treating common and rare types of nonmelanoma skin cancers. Each year Mayo dermatologists treat thousands of nonmelanoma skin cancers with Mohs surgery, a technique in which tissue is removed in thin layers and each layer carefully examined under a microscope for cancer cells. For advanced nonmelanoma skin cancers, a team of specialists from head and neck surgery, plastic surgery, radiation oncology and other specialty areas can be organized to deliver the advanced care needed.

For most skin cancers, treatment options include curettage and electrodesiccation, cryosurgery (freezing), photodynamic therapy, laser therapy, traditional surgery and Mohs surgery. Mayo Clinic dermatologists advise each patient about the most appropriate therapies based on the severity of the cancer.

Although many minor nonmelanoma skin cancers can be treated in the doctor's office, tumors that are large, have been treated before, or are located on the face often require precise and complete removal with Mohs surgery. Following this specialized surgery, the patient undergoes expert reconstruction or other therapies to restore normal function and appearance at the surgical site. Factors that affect skin cancer treatment options include the type of tumor and its size, location and depth. Read more about treatment for nonmelanoma skin cancer.

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About Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

Skin cancer — the abnormal growth of skin cells — is by far the most common form of cancer diagnosed today. About 2 million skin cancer cases are diagnosed annually in the United States. Skin cancer has two major types, nonmelanoma and melanoma. Nonmelanoma is more prevalent. Most skin tumors are not cancerous and can be treated in the doctor's office.

Read more about skin cancer at www.MayoClinic.com.