BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer and arises from the deepest layer of the epidermis of the skin due to DNA damage in the cells. This type of skin cancer is categorized as a nonmelanoma cancer, distinct from a melanoma skin cancer.

BCC is primarily caused by sun exposure – both cumulative over your lifetime, as well as intense bouts of sun causing sunburns. Those who have fair skin, light hair, and light eyes are particularly at risk for this skin cancer. While rarely life-threatening, untreated tumors can grow larger and destroy important structures such as nerves, blood vessels, and bone, especially when they occur on the face and ears. Once diagnosed, timely treatment is crucial to prevent serious disfigurement and functional difficulties, as well as to minimize the risk of recurrence.

Identifying BCC can be challenging as it can take various forms, including a small white or skin-colored bump, a slightly transparent bump, a reddish and irritated patch of skin, a shiny bump that can appear pearly or with different colors based on skin tone, and several other manifestations. BCC rarely causes pain while developing, but may bleed and resemble a sore or wound, leading to misdiagnosis. If left untreated, BCC can spread into surrounding tissues, causing significant damage and functional impairment.

However, the good news is that most BCCs are curable when diagnosed and treated early. Treatment options may include Mohs micrographic surgery, which has the highest cure rate and minimizes damage to healthy tissue, electrodesiccation and curettage (ED&C), a brief surgical procedure typically recommended for non-aggressive BCCs in low-risk areas, radiation therapy, and even topical creams depending on the type of BCC that grows.

Preventive measures such as avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen can help protect against BCC. Regular skin cancer surveillance following diagnosis is important to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

It’s important to note that BCC does not progress into melanoma; each is a separate and distinct type of skin cancer. While the 5-year relative survival rate for BCC and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is high, timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent potential disfigurement and functional impairment.

If you have been diagnosed with BCC, it’s crucial to seek the advice of a dermatologist and discuss a personalized treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome.

Remember, if you notice any unusual changes on your skin, or if you have concerns about skin cancer, it’s always best to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.