When skin basal cells have a mutation, the result is a skin tumor called basal cell carcinoma. A basal cell tumor is typically an irregular growth, which may be red, waxy, or crusty in appearance. Its borders may become ulcerated or enlarged. This type of cancer most commonly develops on the face and other sun-exposed areas. If you notice a new persistent growth, you should have it evaluated by a dermatologist.
If you notice a bump on your skin, you might have basal cell carcinoma. The bump will be flesh-colored, pearly, or translucent. It will also be waxy or scaly and may be brown, black, or blue. Occasionally, basal cancer will have raised borders, which makes it difficult to diagnose. Once it develops, it will most likely bleed and scab over. If left untreated, it will destroy more skin tissue locally.
Basal cell cancer is the most common type of skin cancer in humans. More than four million new cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year in the U.S. Basal cancer is curable when detected early. It can be small or large, but it rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Fortunately, this type of skin cancer is curable, and early diagnosis is the key to cure it. But basal cell cancers must be treated right away to prevent them from causing irreparable damage to the rest of your body.
If basal cell carcinoma is discovered early, treatment options can be individualized to the patient’s needs. The type of surgery you choose will depend on your risk group, location, and size. You may undergo either a surgical excision or a topical treatment. Either option will leave a scar on your skin, but your doctor will discuss the options available to you. If the cancer spreads to the other parts of your body, systemic therapy may be the best option.
Most basal cell cancers start in the skin’s epidermis, where they are most exposed to the sun. Fortunately, basal cell cancers tend to grow slowly and rarely spread, though they can invade other parts of the body if left untreated. If left untreated, basal cell cancers can spread into the surrounding areas, including the bone beneath the skin. Basal cell skin cancers are more likely to recur in the same place, which makes early diagnosis and treatment crucial.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It affects more than four million people in the US each year. While it rarely causes death, it is a serious condition. While the cancer rarely spreads beyond its original site, it can cause severe disfigurement. In addition, basal cell cancer tumors may spread deep into other tissues or bones. If the cancer is large, it can interfere with skin removal.
