What is the primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC)?

Surgical excision is the primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) because it effectively removes the cancerous tissue while aiming to preserve surrounding healthy skin. This method generally ensures that the entire tumor is removed, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence. Surgical techniques can vary, and they may include Mohs micrographic surgery, which is particularly effective for BCC due to its ability to examine the margins of the excised tissue in real-time.

Other treatment options such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy are generally not the first-line approaches for BCC. Radiation might be considered in cases where surgery isn't possible due to the patient’s health or the tumor's location, but it is not as definitive or effective as surgical excision. Chemotherapy is rarely employed for BCC and is more suited for other types of skin cancers or advanced cases. Topical creams can be used for superficial BCCs but are usually part of a broader treatment plan or reserved for specific circumstances. Therefore, surgical excision remains the cornerstone of treatment due to its high success rate and effectiveness in completely removing the cancer.