Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in the basal cells, which are present in the outermost layer of the skin. Although it is the most common form of skin cancer, it is highly treatable when detected early.

Causes and Risk Factors

The primary cause of basal cell carcinoma is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Other risk factors include:

• Having fair skin, light-colored eyes, or light-colored hair
• A family history of skin cancer
• Previous history of sunburns
• Frequent outdoor activities without proper sun protection

Symptoms and Detection

Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a small, shiny bump or a pinkish patch on the skin. It may bleed easily, develop a crust, or form an open sore that doesn't heal. Early detection is crucial to ensure successful treatment. Regularly check your skin for any changes or abnormalities, and be aware of the ABCDE rule:

• Asymmetry: One half of the spot is unlike the other half.
• Border: The spot has irregular, scalloped, or poorly defined borders.
• Color: The spot contains various colors such as shades of pink, brown, or black.
• Diameter: The spot is larger than 6 millimeters in diameter.
• Evolution: The spot changes in size, shape, or color over time.

Treatment Options

At Smith, Arthur F, MD, we offer a range of effective treatment options for basal cell carcinoma, including:

1. Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery, also known as Mohs micrographic surgery, is a precise and highly effective technique that removes cancerous cells layer by layer until none remain. This approach ensures minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue while maximizing the chances of complete removal.

2. Excisional Surgery

Excisional surgery involves removing the tumor along with a surrounding margin of healthy skin. This method is commonly used for smaller basal cell carcinomas and allows for laboratory analysis of the removed tissue to confirm complete removal.

3. Curettage and Electrodesiccation

In this procedure, the cancerous cells are scraped off using a curette and then the area is treated with an electric current to destroy any remaining cancer cells. This technique is typically used for superficial or small lesions.

4. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy involves using high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to destroy cancer cells. It is often recommended when surgical intervention is not suitable, such as for tumors located in cosmetically sensitive areas.

5. Topical Medications

For certain superficial basal cell carcinomas, topical medications such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil can be prescribed. These creams help stimulate the immune system to attack the cancer cells or directly destroy them.

6. Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy involves freezing the tumor using liquid nitrogen. The extreme cold destroys the cancer cells. This method is usually reserved for small and superficial tumors.

Prevention and Follow-Up

Prevention is key to reducing the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. Protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation by:

• Using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30
• Seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm)
• Wearing protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses
• Avoiding artificial tanning methods

Regularly scheduled follow-up appointments with Smith, Arthur F, MD, allow for ongoing monitoring and early detection of any potential recurrence or new skin cancers.

Conclusion

Smith, Arthur F, MD provides comprehensive and effective treatment options for basal cell carcinoma. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking timely treatment is crucial for successful management of this common form of skin cancer. Take proactive steps to protect your skin and schedule regular check-ups with our experienced team to ensure your skin health and overall wellbeing.