Basal cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that affects the skin’s basal cells. Most basal cell carcinoma develops on areas that are exposed to the sun, like the face and the neck. However, basal cancers can also develop on more protected parts of the body, like the genitals. These growths are often bumps on the skin that look white, pink, or brown, and may be crusted over. If you notice a bump on your skin that resembles a basal cell lesion, see your dermatologist immediately.
Early diagnosis is crucial, as basal cancers typically recur within 2 years. Depending on where they have spread, basal cell cancer may have a poor prognosis if not treated promptly. Treatment options for basal cell carcinoma are available through surgical excision or radiation therapy. However, the majority of cases can be successfully treated before the cancer can cause extensive damage to surrounding areas. If your tumor is more advanced than your skin’s ability to heal, radiation therapy may be your best option.
While there are several risk factors associated with basal cancer, the most common is exposure to ultraviolet light and strong irradiation. In addition, exposure to other harmful substances can also lead to basal cancers. A person with a skin disease such as psoriasis can be more susceptible to developing a basal tumor. This type of cancer begins in the top layer of skin, or epidermis.
Because of its rarity, basal cell cancer is more likely to develop on older individuals than in younger people. Most cases of basal cancer occur on the face, as the area is most exposed to the sun. While this cancer rarely spreads to other parts of the body, if left untreated, it can spread to nearby tissues and bone. While basal cell cancer is curable, there are risks for recurrence.
If you suspect that you may have basal cell cancer, your doctor will perform a skin biopsy. This procedure involves examining the suspicious skin area. A dermatologist may remove the suspicious growth or send a sample for analysis in a lab. Once the biopsy is complete, basal cell cancer treatment begins. It depends on the size and depth of the tumor, as well as your general health. It is important to note that skin cancer treatments come with risks and should only be undertaken after careful consideration.
Basal cell carcinomas have an excellent prognosis if detected early. If caught early, basal cancers offer 85%-95% recurrence-free cure. Although basal cancers are not life-threatening, they are still disfiguring and potentially deadly. To avoid developing these cancers, make sure you get the help of a medical professional immediately. They will be able to help you make the best decision regarding your care. So, don’t wait! Find out how to prevent basal cancers.
Basal cancer is the most common form of skin cancer, accounting for more than 75 percent of all cancer cases in the United States. Fortunately, basal cells grow slowly and rarely spread to other areas of the body. Because basal cells do not spread easily, they are curable if detected early. To prevent basal cancers, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as you notice a suspicious growth on your skin. You should schedule a skin biopsy as soon as possible.
