Treatment options for stage 2 squamous cell carcinoma include surgical and non-surgical procedures. Since stage 2 tumors are larger than those of earlier stages, doctors often use a procedure called Mohs surgery, which involves removing the tumor layer by layer and testing each layer for cancer. This method is good for larger tumors or those on layers of thin, sensitive skin because it helps preserve as much tissue as possible. Another common method is simple excision, which involves surgically removing the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue. Sometimes, doctors may remove the squamous cell carcinoma using curettage and electrodessication, which involves scraping off the top layers of skin and then burning the base of the tumor with an electric needle. In other cases, doctors may recommend cryosurgery (freezing the tumor) or laser therapy (burning the tumor). If the tumor is still shallow, doctors may treat stage 2 squamous cell carcinoma with topical chemotherapy, which involves applying strong drugs to the affected skin.
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