OBJECTIVES: Cutaneous cancer is a general term given to a range of skin tumours. Its severity is determined by the size and location of the primary tumour, and whether there are metastases. This study was designed to obtain a clear understanding of the current treatments and costs related to the clinical management of cutaneous cancer in Germany. This study was undertaken to be able to contrast the efficacy and health economic benefits of current care relative to emerging ablation technologies being developed. METHODS: A Care Map was developed to capture how patients with cutaneous cancer are treated in Germany from diagnosis through follow up. In this study, the focus was on treatment of tumours not larger than 20cm2. Information in the public domain was supplemented with information gathered through expert interviews with six dermatologists. RESULTS: After diagnosis of cutaneous cancer, patients were mainly treated with Mohs surgery (32%), conventional surgery (30%), chemotherapy (14%) and radiotherapy (12%). Other treatments used include limb perfusion, phototherapy (e.g. PUVA), laser therapy, immunotherapy or combinations of these therapies. After first line treatment, more than 85% of patients are cleared of their cancer and are subsequently followed for recurrence of the tumour. Recurrent tumours are mainly treated with Mohs surgery (31%), conventional surgery (25%), or chemotherapy (22%). Severe adverse events are rare. The total average charge to the third party payer of first-line treatment is approximately €3,540. For the second-line treatment the costs are approximately €3,756. CONCLUSIONS: Current treatment of small cutaneous cancers varies depending upon the type of tumour. Mohs surgery, conventional surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are the main treatment options. First line treatment is very successful, with 85% of patients being cured. However, the 15% of patients with recurrences will need to undergo a second-line treatment, impacting the patient and health care system.