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Getting GentleCure (IM-SRT) for my 2 Basal Cell Carcinomas
Melanoma & Skin Cancer | Last Active: 2 hours ago | Replies (29)Comment receiving replies
I have basal cell carcinoma on one side of my nose. About an inch long that looks like a scar and has been there for years. After they did a biopsy, it started spreading while I looked for a MOHS surgeon. A friend told me about Gentle Cure, and I signed up for it. The doctor did not tell me about any down sides to the treatment, and now I am reading that scars can occur and that fatigue is often associated with treatment. The whole reason why I choose Gentle Cure treatment was to AVOID scarring! Should I be concerned? Is there anything I should be doing or asking? Beyond stressed.
Replies to "I have basal cell carcinoma on one side of my nose. About an inch long that..."
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@cw17: Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect where several people have experienced similar situations as you are going through, including myself.
I have had several BCCs, SCCs - even melanoma - over the years. I once opted for radiation although I'm uncertain if it was called Gentle Cure, when I had a BCC near my eye; several visits to the radiologist over a period of weeks, no real down time or appreciable side effects except for maybe some scaling/redness and needed to take basic precautions when out in the sun. It must have worked well as I have no scarring in that area!
As for pros/cons: You are correct that radiation is less likely to leave any type of scarring; some skin discoloration may be possible. No incisions are required. It does, however, require multiple sessions and there is no sure fire way to assess all margins are clear. Mohs does remain the gold standard to ensure all margins are clear; it is performed in one session. To my knowledge, and in my experience, neither has resulted in any associated fatigue.
Why had your doctor not informed you of this option? Possibly because it is not offered in office. Have you inquired about the treatment with them to get their perspective?