Other options besides Mohs surgery for reoccurring BCC?

I was having multiple squamous cell eruptions over 20 years and all treated with MOHS but got tired of
all the cutting and it was going into my lymph nodes, so for me more serious. I started Libtayo immunotherapy 2 years ago, infusion every 3 weeks. I've not had any breakouts since I started. But, for me, getting a handle on the
lymph node invasion took much longer and now I'm finally seeing good results! My recent PET scan shows almost no SCC invasion. I'm lucky as I have no bad reactions from the infusions. Check it out!

I was told mine were a slow growing squamous cell carcinoma that had probably happened years ago when I was a child. I have been wearing sunscreen since I was 16. Had Mohs surgery last year and probably facing more this year. I sincerely hope you can find some relief.

You could try taking niacinamide which in some cases is preventive in slowing
down new skin cancer development.
Have you been tested for Basal Cell Nevus syndrome. ?
If you have any other criteria there are genetic tests available.

@bbrits08: Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I detected my first BCC when I was 36 so to have 14 already by your age must be terribly exasperating.

As to why this happening, the causes can be multifactoral. You stated you've only had 3 sunburns in your life which according to the National Institute of Health is actually considered sufficient to increase the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma and recurrence. The scalp can also be a prime area for BCCs to occur due to frequent sun exposure especially if head covering is not routinely used - and it's not an area where topical sun screen can readily be applied. There is also the possibility in cases of recurrent BCCs that genetic predisposition may play a role. If that is suspected, the work up would involve targeted genetic testing ordered by your medical provider.

While Mohs surgery is one way to treat BCCs there are other methods available, such as radition (limited if previously used in the area) or a technique called electrochemotherapy. Please note that IV infusions to treat BCCs are generally reserved for those individuals demonstrating more locally advanced or metastatic disease, which does not appear to be your situation. If you've not already done so, a consultation with an oncologist may be beneficial due to the number of BCCs you've had treated to date to inquire as to your options.

This information sheet from Mayo Clinic provides more information on potential causes and treatment of BCC: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/symptoms-causes/syc-2035418

Does this help provide you with some direction going forward?

@grammato3 I’ve always had a hat. I already have an oncologist and they know I have a methylation disorder which can contribute to it. Genetic testing has been negative so far. Every 6 months is getting old being cut on and having a hole in my head due to not being able to close me up is something I’d rather not do again(it’s been difficult) I had my first one at 23 and then they started up again with a vengeance at 31 and have been every 6 months since then

@seniormed I just started taking it. I kept having an allergic reaction to it so I had to find a way to be able to take it without the hives. My oncologist and dermatologist wants me tested for the rare ones that can cause multiple reoccurring BCCs but insurance has been an issue

@bbrits08: It sounds like you're on the right track with specialists and doing what you can. Best of luck at getting this under control. Please let me know if there are any new treatments they recommend and that you find helpful.

@grammato3 Hi, the link that was provided here doesn't seem to work. It says "Page Not Found". Is there another link?

@cw17: Sorry, it appears to have been updated. Let's try this: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354193

I have had a number of basil cells on face with Mohs. I am just trying fluorouracil right now, don’t know the result obviously but there is literature of success for sun related damage.