Non-surgical treatments for skin cancers include: photodynamic therapy- a new treatment for BCCs. It uses a cream that makes your skin sensitive to light. Your skin is then exposed to a laser, which kills the cancer cells. Destroying BCCs with liquid nitrogen is also used. A prescribed cream called imiquimod, which uses your immune system, is used to attack BCCs. Use of etinoid treatment (given as tablets) and biological therapies-manufactured antibodies, e. g interferon, help your immune system to fight the cancer. A recent advance is the development of melanoma vaccines. You may have radiotherapy if the cancer covers a wide area or after surgery to stop the cancer coming back. You may also be put on chemotherapy-medicines (injections or tablets) are used to destroy cancer cells.

Attribution: BUPA

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