Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

Overview

Mayo dermatologists have extensive experience treating both common and rare types of nonmelanoma skin cancers. Each year physicians treat more than 2,000 nonmelanoma skin cancers with Mohs surgery, a technique that uses a microscope to remove cancer cells while preserving healthy tissue. For advanced nonmelanoma skin cancers, multidisciplinary consultations with specialists from head and neck surgery, plastic surgery, radiation oncology and other specialty areas are organized as needed.

Diagnosis

A physician should be consulted if a person experiences skin changes, such as a new lump or an abnormally shaped mole. In general, skin lesions that remain more than two months are more likely to be skin cancer than those that go away in that time. If the physician suspects cancer, the patient will need to undergo a biopsy, which tests a sample of the suspected area. If a cancer covers an extensive area of skin, X-rays and other tests may be needed to determine how far the cancer has spread.

Treatment Options

For most skin cancers, treatment options include curettage and electrodesiccation, cryosurgery (freezing), photodynamic therapy, laser therapy 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 a dermatologist's office, conditions that are large, recurring or located on the face often require precise and complete removal with Mohs surgery combined with expert reconstruction or other therapies that restore a patient's normal function and appearance. Factors that affect skin cancer treatment options include the type of disorder 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. In fact, doctors diagnose skin cancer in approximately 1 million Americans each year. There are two major types of skin cancer, melanoma and nonmelanoma. Nonmelanoma is the more prevalent form of the disease.

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