My mom was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma ( stage 2) on the side of her nose ( cartilage). her dermatologist ordered 2 treatments plans - one is cream to apply for 2 wks then do biopsy again or mohs procedure. i what is the best way to go?

The answer depends on factors you haven't told us about, such as your mom's age, overall health status, and size of tumor. I tend to recommend Mohs surgery, because it is fast and removes all the malignant cells in one sitting. Applying Efudex for several weeks may or may not work - and if it doesn't, she'll need Mohs anyway. Your dermatologist knows your mom and can help you make the decision.

The MOHS procedure and treatment is done in one visit. It takes an hour or more but the results are known then .The carcinoma is removed and any other necessary treatment is done at that visit. The quicker the surgery the better the results.