Superficial radiation therapy is a treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers such as superficial basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. This type of radiation therapy uses a low dose of radiation to penetrate only the superficial surface of the skin. This can be an effective way to eliminate skin cancer without surgery. Superficial radiation therapy does not involve a scalpel or cutting of the skin but removes cancer cells by triggering inflammation and cell death with low-level radiation. Rates of skin cancer for clearance for superficial lesions are similar to surgical treatment methods, such as Mohs surgery.
Superficial radiation therapy is performed by a licensed physician and certified operator. The physician will analyze the pathology of your skin tumor and determine the range and depth of radiation as well as the number of sessions required for the curative dose. The cancer, as well as a small margin of normal tissue, is considered the treatment area.
Superficial radiation therapy is considered a cure for skin cancer if performed within standardized protocol and appropriate dosing. The method of this type of radiation treatment is considered “low and slow.” The calculation of the dose is determined by the physician. Treatment typically requires 14 brief office visits, generally twice per week.
There are very few side effects to superficial radiation therapy. A red and slightly irritated appearance within the treated area can appear. Some areas can have a slight change in pigment, such as lightening or darkening of the skin, known as hypo- or hyperpigmentation. Because this is a scarless treatment and does not require surgical removal, the cosmetic outcome is typically less disfiguring than surgery. Therefore, superficial radiation therapy is indicated for areas of cosmetic concern such as the face, nose, ears, and lower extremities.
Aftercare is very minimal and requires skincare with just soap, water, and occasional ointment for moisturization. The skin does not typically break down or open during therapy because the radiation is low-level, and your physician will continue to monitor the progress of the skin integrity in the treated area.
Superficial radiation therapy is only skin-deep. Depending on the tumor’s location, depth, and thickness, the treatment is calculated and customized, unlike traditional radiation that penetrates the body and goes deep into the underlying tissue and organs. Superficial radiation therapy does not penetrate deeply and therefore does not cause collateral damage beneath the skin.
There is a curative dose of radiation that cures skin cancer. Your physician will deliver that therapeutic dose over a number of treatments. As with any treatment, we will follow this area clinically over time to ensure the cancer does not return. As with all skin cancer treatments, including surgery, you should continue to follow up with your dermatologist who will perform skin cancer examinations at regular intervals and surveillance the area treated to ensure that the cancer does not recur. Your dermatologist should perform your full body skin exams per the National Cancer Institute’s guidelines.
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Lorraine Grassmann
OFFICE Manager
Lorraine Grassmann
OFFICE Manager
949-200-8222
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