If you have been diagnosed with squamous or basal cell skin cancer, the treatment team is going to discuss the best possible options with you. It is important to understand the benefit of each treatment for skin cancer along with the possible risk factors.
How are basal and squamous cell skin cancers treated?
Based on the cancer type and stage along with additional factors, your treatment option can include:
- Surgery for Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers
- Local Treatments Other than Surgery for Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers
- Systemic Chemotherapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers
- Immunotherapy for Advanced stage of Squamous Cell Cancers
- Targeted Therapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers
- Radiation Therapy for Basal and Squamous Cell Cancers
What are the common treatment options?
Different treatment approaches can be used for treating squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, Bowen disease, and actinic keratosis. Fortunately, these cancers can be cured with local treatments and minor surgery. Consult the oncologist and get a better understanding of what can suit your condition the best.
How to make the final decision for treatment?
You must discuss the treatment options including your goals and side effects. Your cancer doctor will guide you on what suits your condition the best. Some of the important things which your doctor will consider while giving you the treatment are:
- Location and type of your cancer
- The treatment option increases the success chances.
- Your overall health and age
- Treatment possible side effects
Some patients think that they need to make the decision quickly, but it is important to give yourself some time. Make sure you understand all the information your doctor has given you.
If you have time, then you might consult the doctor for a second opinion. It can give you more information and make you feel confident you have made the best choice.
The option of complementary and alternative methods
You might have heard about complementary or alternative methods to treat cancer which doctor has not mentioned to treat cancer or relieve symptoms. It includes herbs, vitamins, or a special diet. Complementary methods refer to the treatment which your doctor will suggest to you with medical care.
It can help you to get relief from the symptoms and also make you feel better. Make sure to consult your cancer care team and they can tell you better which one works the best for you. Their guidance is going to help you make an informed decision.
Get help through cancer treatment
People who are undergoing or going to get skin cancer treatment need support and the right information. No matter which stage of cancer they have, having someone by their side and getting honest advice will make everything much easier for them.
