The simplest and most common treatment for smaller SCC in situ is surgical excision. The standard practice is to remove about a quarter inch beyond the edge of the cancer. Larger ones can also be excised, but Mohs surgery may be needed. It offers the highest cure rate of all treatment methods. For those not up to surgery, there are some choices. SCC in situ can be burned off by several methods. These are "curettage and electrodessication", liquid nitrogen cryotherapy and laser destruction. These heal with similar scars.
X-ray or grenz ray radiation can be given to poor surgical candidates or patients with multiple sites. This is very expensive and requires multiple visits to the hospital. Efudex Cream applied for 1 to 3 months will often work, but leaves an uncomfortable raw area during that time. A very promising new treatment is Aldara cream. This may have a better cure rate, but is still undergoing studies. The latest treatment approved by the FDA but not yet in common use, is photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT is an alternative way to "burn off" SCC in situ using a drug that is absorbed only by cancer cells. A bright light is then applies causing the release of toxins and destruction of the tumor. The dermatologist based on his experience, expertise and analysis of your personal situation is the one best equipped to decide your personal treatment plan.
(published with permission in writing from:http://www.aocd.org)
