Basal Cell Carcinoma: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. Symptoms of basal cell carcinoma can vary, but common signs and symptoms include:

1. Pearly or waxy bump: A raised, pearly or translucent bump that may be pink, red, or white in color. It may have small, visible blood vessels on the surface.
2. Flat, scaly patch: A flat, scaly, reddish patch that may resemble eczema or another non-cancerous skin condition. It may be itchy or painful.
3. Open sore: An open sore that does not heal, or heals and then reopens. The sore may ooze or crust over and may bleed easily.
4. Shiny bump or nodule: A shiny, firm bump or nodule that may be pink, red, or white. It may be slightly raised and can resemble a scar-like area.
5. Pink growth with raised edges: A pink growth with slightly raised, rolled edges and a lower center. This type of BCC may resemble a flesh-colored mole.

Basal cell carcinoma typically develops on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and ears. It is slow-growing and usually does not spread to other parts of the body, but it can be locally invasive and cause damage to surrounding tissues if left untreated.

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it’s important to see a dermatologist for evaluation and possible biopsy. Early detection and treatment of basal cell carcinoma can help prevent complications and improve outcomes.

What are the causes of basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is primarily caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from tanning beds. UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that can cause the cells to grow out of control and form cancerous tumors.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, including:

1. Sun exposure: Prolonged or frequent exposure to the sun’s UV rays, especially during childhood and adolescence, increases the risk of developing BCC later in life.
2. Indoor tanning: The use of tanning beds or lamps, which emit UV radiation, increases the risk of developing skin cancer, including BCC.
3. Fair skin: People with fair skin that burns easily and does not tan are at higher risk of developing BCC.
4. Age: The risk of developing BCC increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over 50 years old.
5. Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop BCC.
6. Family history: Having a family history of skin cancer, including BCC, increases the risk of developing the disease.
7. Exposure to certain chemicals: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, may increase the risk of developing BCC.

It’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays by wearing sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours. Regular skin checks and prompt medical attention for any suspicious skin changes can help detect basal cell carcinoma early, when it is most treatable.

What is the treatment for basal cell carcinoma?

The treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) depends on various factors, including the size, location, and subtype of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. Common treatment options for BCC include:

1. Surgery: Surgical excision is a common treatment for BCC. During this procedure, the tumor is removed along with a margin of normal skin to ensure that all cancer cells are eliminated. Mohs micrographic surgery is a specialized technique that is often used for BCCs on the face or other areas where preserving healthy tissue is important.
2. Curettage and electrodesiccation: This procedure involves scraping away the tumor with a curette (a spoon-shaped instrument) and then using an electric current to destroy any remaining cancer cells. It may be used for small, superficial BCCs.
3. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to treat BCCs that are difficult to treat with surgery or for patients who are not good candidates for surgery. It may also be used in combination with surgery for certain types of BCCs.
4. Topical medications: Prescription creams or gels containing imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) may be used to treat superficial BCCs. These medications work by stimulating the body’s immune system to attack the cancer cells.
5. Photodynamic therapy (PDT): PDT involves applying a photosensitizing agent to the skin and then exposing it to a light source that activates the agent, destroying the cancer cells. PDT is often used for superficial BCCs.
6. Biologic therapy: Biologic therapy, such as vismodegib or sonidegib, may be used to treat advanced or metastatic BCCs that cannot be treated with surgery or radiation.

The choice of treatment depends on the specific characteristics of the BCC and should be determined by a healthcare provider with experience in treating skin cancer. Early detection and treatment of BCC are important for preventing the cancer from spreading and for achieving the best possible outcome.

What is the survival rate for basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is generally associated with a very high survival rate because it is a slow-growing cancer that rarely spreads to other parts of the body. The vast majority of BCCs are cured with appropriate treatment, and the overall prognosis is excellent.

The survival rate for BCC is often expressed in terms of the five-year survival rate, which is the percentage of people who are alive five years after diagnosis. For basal cell carcinoma, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100% for localized tumors, meaning those that have not spread beyond the original site. Even for BCCs that have spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, the five-year survival rate is still very high, typically above 90%.

It’s important to note that survival rates are general estimates and can vary based on individual factors such as the size and location of the tumor, the subtype of BCC, and the overall health of the patient. Early detection and treatment of BCC are key factors in achieving a successful outcome, so regular skin checks and prompt medical attention for any suspicious skin changes are recommended.