What is the primary treatment approach for basal cell carcinoma?

Surgical excision is considered the primary treatment approach for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) due to its effectiveness in completely removing the tumor and minimizing the chances of recurrence. Basal cell carcinoma, being the most common form of skin cancer, typically arises from UV exposure and is characterized by slow growth. Surgical excision allows for clear margins, ensuring that the entire cancerous lesion is removed and reducing the risk of leaving behind any malignancy.

In cases where the carcinoma is superficial or when a patient may not be a good surgical candidate, other modalities such as topical immunotherapy or Mohs micrographic surgery may be used, but the foundational approach remains excision. This ensures definitive treatment while preserving as much surrounding healthy tissue as possible.

Other options, while they may have specific roles in treatment for certain situations, are not first-line approaches for BCC. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are generally reserved for advanced or metastatic skin cancers, and topical antifungals are indicated for fungal infections, not neoplastic lesions. Therefore, surgical excision stands out as the most appropriate primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma.