|
| |
Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is a cancer of the cells at the
bottom of the skin's outermost layer, the epidermis.. It accounts for more than
three-quarters of all skin cancers in this country. Most basal cell carcinomas are slow
growing and almost never spread. However, if they are left they can erode the skin and
cause an ulcer, known as a rodent ulcer. A small number of rodent ulcers come back on the
same area of skin after treatment (local recurrence).
Causes of Basal cell carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of cancer in the
US. It accounts for about 75% of all skin cancers. The iNational Cancer institutedence of skin cancer has
increased greatly in recent years, due in part to greater exposure to UV radiation from
the sun. In 1990, 600,000 Americans were diagnosed with either basal cell cancer or
squamous cell cancer, up from 400,000 in 1980.
Basal cells are normal skin cells. They may develop cancerous changes, causing a lump
or bump that is painless. A new skin growth that ulcerates, bleeds easily, or does not
heal well may indicate development of basal cell skin cancer. This type of skin cancer has
a high cure rate, but neglect can allow the cancer to enlarge, causing possible disability
or, in rare cases, death.
More than 90% of basal cell carcinomas occur on areas of skin that are regularly exposed
to sunlight or other ultraviolet radiation. They may also occur on the scalp. The onset
most commonly occurs after age 40.
Other risks include a genetic predisposition -- basal cell carcinomas are more common
in those who have light colored skin, blue or green eyes, blond or red hair -- and
overexposure to X-rays or other forms of radiation.
This cancer usually remains local and almost never spreads to distant parts of the
body, but it may continue to grow and invade nearby tissues and structures, including the
nerves, bones, and brain. The tumor may begin very small, growing to 1 or 2 centimeters in
diameter after several years of growth.
Symptoms of Basal cell carcinoma
- A skin lesion, growth, or bump located on the face, ear, neck, chest, back, or scalp
- Pearly or waxy appearance
- White or light pink, flesh-colored, or brown
- Flat or slightly raised
- Visible blood vessels in the lesion or adjacent skin
- Appearance of a scarlike lesion without a history of injury to the skin in that area
- A sore that will not heal
Diagnosis of Basal cell carcinoma
A biopsy of a
suspicious skin lesion is needed to confirm the diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma.
Treatment of Basal cell carcinoma
Treatment varies depending on the size, depth, and location of
the cancer.
The carcinoma is removed using one of these
procedures:
- Scraping
- Cauterization (burning)
- Surgical removal, including microscopic shaving (Mohs' surgery)
- Cryosurgery (freezing)
- Radiation
|
cm
| |
|