FREMONT MOHS SURGERY: BASAL & SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA TREATMENT

BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

Skin cancers are on the rise in the United States, and the most prevalent type is basal cell carcinoma. According to Yale Medicine, they make up 80% of all skin cancers, and it’s not only the most common skin cancer but the most common cancer in the world. 

Basal cell carcinoma occurs when basal cells’ DNA is damaged in the epidermis, or top layer, of the skin. And while it starts on the top layer, the cancer can go deeper. It occurs due to exposure to UV light, from the sun or artificial lights, and affects light-skinned people more than others. Another characteristic is that cancer is the consequence of cumulative exposure and it can take decades to manifest. Basal cell carcinoma can manifest itself with a reddish patch, red bump, pink growth, or in other ways. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor to diagnose it early. 

SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

The second most common skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and the causes are similar. Too much UV light, from the sun or tanning beds, can result in SCC. One major difference between BCC and SCC is squamous cell carcinoma can spread to the lymph nodes or even internal organs. Luckily, the risk of spreading is low, as long as the cancer is detected and treated early. In order to determine what type of skin cancer it is, a doctor must examine it under a microscope after a biopsy. Our experts at MOD Dermatology will diagnose squamous cell carcinoma at our Fremont office and create a treatment plan.

MOHS SURGERY 

The most effective treatment for BCC and SCC is Mohs surgery. Our Fremont dermatologists are here to help our skin cancer patients with this highly effective surgery. 

Mohs surgery involves removing thin layers of skin where the tumor is present and examining each layer for cancer. Layer by layer, the skin is removed and edges are checked for signs of cancer under a microscope. Then, once all detectable cancer has been removed, the wound is closed and reconstructed, depending on the size and location. MOD Dermatology recommends Mohs surgery at our Fremont office when needed for basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas because it has a 98% to 99% success rate. Mohs surgery minimizes scarring, offers immediate results, and in many cases, reconstruction can be performed the same day. 

Reach out to MOD Dermatology to learn more about our Mohs surgery in Fremont as a basal or squamous cell carcinoma treatment. Schedule your appointment today.