|
|
Other Names: Rodent ulcer, Basal Cell Skin Cancer, BCC
Basal Cell Carcinoma
On this page:
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common
form of skin cancer and affects approximately 800,000 Americans
each year.
Dark-skinned individuals are far less likely than fair-skinned to develop
skin cancer. However, more than two-thirds of the skin cancers in fair skinned
people are squamous cell carcinomas taht usually arise at
the sites
of pre-existing
inflammatory skin conditions or burn injuries.
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) arises
in the basal cells of the skin. Basal cells are the
bottom layer of the epidermis. Epidermis is the outermost layer of the
skin.
Return to top 
The most common cause of basal cell carcinoma is long term exposure
to sunlight of parts of the body like the face, ears,
neck, scalp, shoulders and back. In rare cases, tumors may develop
on non-exposed areas. Contact with arsenic, exposure to radiation
and complications
of burns, scars, vaccinations, or even tattoos are important contributing factors.
Return to top
- Anyone with a history of frequent sun exposure can develop basal
cell carcinoma.
- People who have fair skin,
light hair, and
blue, green, or gray eyes are at highest risk.
- Those people who work long hours outdoors or who spend extensive
leisure time in the sun.
Return to top
Basal
cell carcinoma sometimes resembles non-cancerous skin conditions such as
psoriasis or eczema. Below is a list of warning signs
of basal cell carcinoma. It is vital to examine your skin regularly particularly
if you engage in activities or occupations that expose you to the
sun
for prolonged periods of time. Be sure to examine the scalp, backs
of ears, neck, and other hard-to-see areas by using a full-length mirror
and a hand-held mirror. If you observe any of the warning signs or some other
change in your skin, consult your physician immediately.
Return to top
- A scar-like white, yellow or waxy area, which often has poorly defined
borders. The skin may appear shiny and taut. Although a less frequently occurring
sign, it can indicate the presence of an aggressive tumor.
- A reddish patch or a patch showing skin irritation. This irritated
area of skin frequently occurs on the chest, shoulders,
arms, or legs.
The
patch
may crust, itch or hurt or it may persist with no noticeable
discomfort.
- A shiny nodule, that is pearly or translucent and is
often pink, red, or white. The nodule can also be tan, black or brown,
especially in
dark-haired
people, and can be confused with a mole.
- An open sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and remains open for three or
more weeks or a persistent, non-healing sore.
- A pink growth with a slightly
elevated rolled border and a crusted indentation in the center. As the
growth slowly enlarges, tiny blood vessels may
develop on the surface.
Return to top
Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma depends on the size, depth and
location of the cancer.
- The
carcinoma is removed using one of these procedures:
- Scraping
- Cauterization or burning.
- Surgical removal, including microscopic shaving
(Mohs' surgery)
- Cryosurgery or freezing.
- Radiation therapy.
Return to top
Early treatment of this cancer may result in a cure rate
of more than 95%. However, the cancer may appear on new sites so
diligent monitoring and regular examination by your physician is necessary.
Return to top
Showing 1 - 8 of 14 Results
|
