Summary about Disease
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells, which are located in the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin). BCC is typically slow-growing and rarely spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body. However, if left untreated, it can invade and damage surrounding tissue.
Symptoms
BCC can appear in various forms. Some common signs include:
A pearly or waxy bump
A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns
A pink growth with raised edges and a crusted indentation in the center
Small, visible blood vessels on the growth
Causes
The primary cause of BCC is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. Other factors that can increase the risk include:
Fair skin
A history of sunburns
Family history of skin cancer
Exposure to arsenic
Radiation therapy
Weakened immune system
Certain genetic conditions
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used Treatment for BCC depends on the size, location, and aggressiveness of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include:
Topical medications: Creams or lotions like imiquimod or fluorouracil may be used for superficial BCCs.
Curettage and electrodessication: Scraping away the cancerous cells followed by using an electric needle to destroy remaining cells.
Surgical excision: Cutting out the tumor and surrounding skin.
Mohs surgery: Layer-by-layer removal of the tumor until only cancer-free tissue remains.
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
Photodynamic therapy: Applying a light-sensitizing drug and then exposing the area to a special light.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the tumor with liquid nitrogen.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific proteins or pathways in cancer cells (used in rare cases of advanced BCC).
Is Communicable
No, basal cell carcinoma is not contagious or communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
To reduce your risk of developing BCC:
Limit sun exposure: Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing: Cover exposed skin with long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation.
Regular skin self-exams: Check your skin regularly for new growths or changes in existing moles or lesions.
See a dermatologist: Have regular skin exams by a dermatologist, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer.
How long does an outbreak last?
BCC is not an "outbreak" like a viral infection. It's a slow-growing cancer. Without treatment, it will continue to grow and potentially invade surrounding tissues. The duration of the presence of the cancer depends on when it's detected and treated.
How is it diagnosed?
BCC is typically diagnosed through:
Visual examination: A doctor will examine the skin lesion.
Biopsy: A small sample of the skin lesion is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of skin cancer.
Timeline of Symptoms
9. Timeline of symptoms The timeline of BCC symptoms varies. It is usually slow-growing.
Early stages: May appear as a small, painless bump or a flat, scaly patch. Often mistaken for a pimple or a scar.
Progression: Over months or years, the lesion may slowly enlarge. It may develop a raised border and a central ulcer. Bleeding or crusting may occur.
Advanced stages (rare): If left untreated for a very long time, the tumor can invade deeper tissues, causing significant damage.
Important Considerations
Early detection and treatment are crucial for successful outcomes.
While BCC rarely metastasizes, it can be locally destructive if not treated.
People who have had BCC are at a higher risk of developing new skin cancers in the future. Lifelong monitoring and sun protection are essential.
Discuss treatment options and potential side effects with your doctor.
Mental health concerns can arise with a cancer diagnosis. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed.