Skin Cancer

AAD Releases New Guidelines for Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has released new guidelines for the management of nonmelanoma skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

 

Skin cancer affects more than 3 million Americans per year. The overall incidence of BCC and SCC has increased by 145% and 263%, respectively, between 1976-1984 and 2000-2010.

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The guidelines were constructed by a work group composed of board-certified dermatologists and other experts in hopes of addressing this increasing incidence of skin cancer in the United States.

 

The new guidelines include the following recommendations:

 

  • The most effective option for most cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer is surgical treatment, which includes excision, Mohs surgery, or curettage and electrodessication. However, in some cases, other treatments including cryotherapy, radiation, or topical therapy may be considered.

 

  • Individuals who have received a diagnosis of BCC or SCC should receive once-yearly exams to check for new skin cancers and take steps to prevent skin cancers from developing in the future.

 

  • Regardless of previous skin cancer status, all individuals should protect themselves from the sun’s ultraviolet rays by using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and by wearing protective clothing and seeking shade.

 

  • All individuals should perform regular skin self-exams for early detection of skin cancer. Anyone who notices any new or suspicious spots, or anything that changes, itches, or bleeds, should see a board-certified dermatologist.

 

The full versions of the guidelines for BCC and cutaneous SCC are published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

 

—Christina Vogt

 

Reference:

American Academy of Dermatology issues new guidelines for treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer [press release]. Schaumberg, IL. American Academy of Dermatology. January 10, 2018.  https://www.aad.org/media/news-releases/guidelines-to-treat-nonmelanoma-skin-cancer. Accessed on January 11, 2018.