Basal cell skin cancers are commonly found on sun exposed skin. Fortunately, they are easily treated when identified early. Unfortunately, delays are relatively common with the long waits for dermatology appointments and delays in treatment can result in progression. Now, you can say goodbye to the overwhelming frustration and anxiety caused by months-long waiting periods for appointments. The Trillium Clinic is proudly redefining the dermatologic care model, ensuring that every patient will be seen within 14 days of requesting an appointment. Step into a new era of patient-centered care, where the agony of waiting for appointments becomes a thing of the past.
What is a Basal Cell Cancer
Basal cell carcinoma usually appears as a slow-growing, flesh-colored or pinkish bump or patch on the skin. The lesion may have a shiny or pearly appearance and can be raised or flat. It may also have visible blood vessels or a central depression. While it can occur anywhere on the body, it is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, neck, scalp, ears, and shoulders.
What Causes a Basal Cell Cancer
The primary cause of basal cell carcinoma is long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Other risk factors include:
Fair skin: People with fair or light-colored skin are more susceptible to developing basal cell carcinoma.
Chronic sun exposure: Spending significant time outdoors, especially without adequate sun protection, increases the risk.
Age: Basal cell carcinoma is more common in older individuals, as cumulative sun exposure takes its toll on the skin over time.
Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing organ transplantation, have an increased risk.
How is a Basal Cell Carcinoma treated
Treatment for basal cell carcinoma depends on various factors, including the size, location, and stage of the cancer. Common treatment options include:
Surgical excision: The primary treatment for localized basal cell carcinoma involves surgically removing the cancerous tissue along with a margin of healthy skin.
Mohs surgery: This specialized surgical technique is used for larger or high-risk tumors. It involves removing the cancer layer by layer, examining it under a microscope during the procedure to ensure complete removal while preserving healthy tissue.
Electrodessication and curettage: The tumor is scraped off with a sharp instrument (curette), and then an electric current is applied to the area to control bleeding and destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and destroy the cancer cells. This treatment causes the lesion to blister and eventually slough off.
Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are directed at the tumor to kill cancer cells and shrink the lesion. It is commonly used when surgery is not suitable or for tumors in sensitive areas.
Can Basal Cell Carcinoma be prevented
To reduce the risk of basal cell carcinoma and other skin cancers, it is important to:
Limit sun exposure: Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
Apply sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF on exposed skin, even on cloudy days.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
Embark of your journey
Regular skin examinations and follow-ups with a dermatologist are recommended for individuals with a history of basal cell cancer to monitor for any changes or new lesions. Early detection and treatment is crucial to prevent the evolution or spread of these lesions. You should schedule annual skin checks if you are low risk, and more frequent total body skin examinations if you have a history of actinic keratoses or other skin cancers. As experts in the detection and treatment of skin cancer, we invite patients from Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Pittsboro, Mebane, Durham, Greensboro, Raleigh, Cary, Apex and surrounding cities, to schedule their total body skin examination with us today. You can self-schedule here or contact us by phone and we will help you find a convenient appointment. Once you arrive, a member of our dermatology team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your skin and discuss any findings that may be concerning. Skin cancers can be treated effectively when identified early. Do not put off your annual skin exam any longer!