Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Common Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma: An Overview

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 80% of all cases. It is a slow-growing cancer that originates in the basal cells, which are the cells that make up the deepest layer of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. BCC typically appears as a small, pearly or waxy bump on the skin, and it can range in color from pink to brown or black.

BCC can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms. BCC is more common in fair-skinned people and those who have a history of sun exposure.

Causes of BCC

The primary cause of BCC is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or from artificial sources, such as tanning beds. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to the development of cancer.

Risk Factors for BCC

The risk of developing BCC is increased by the following factors:

• Fair skin: People with fair skin are more likely to develop BCC because they have less melanin, a pigment that helps protect the skin from UV radiation.
• Sun exposure: The more sun exposure a person has, the greater their risk of developing BCC.
• Tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation, which can increase the risk of BCC.
• A history of BCC: People who have had BCC in the past are at an increased risk of developing another BCC.
• A family history of BCC: People who have a family history of BCC are at an increased risk of developing the cancer.
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems are at an increased risk of developing BCC.

Symptoms of BCC

BCC typically appears as a small, pearly or waxy bump on the skin. The bump may be pink, brown, or black in color. BCCs can also appear as flat, scaly patches or sores that do not heal.

BCCs can grow slowly over time, and they can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. BCCs are usually not painful, but they can bleed or crust over.

Diagnosis of BCC

BCC is diagnosed by a dermatologist, who will examine the skin and take a biopsy of the suspicious area. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the skin and examined under a microscope.

Treatment for BCC

BCC is treated with surgery, radiation therapy, or cryosurgery.

• Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for BCC. The surgeon will remove the BCC and a small margin of healthy skin around the cancer.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is often used to treat BCCs that are large or that are located in difficult-to-reach areas.
• Cryosurgery: Cryosurgery uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy cancer cells. Cryosurgery is often used to treat small BCCs.

Prognosis for BCC

BCC is a slow-growing cancer that is rarely fatal. However, BCC can cause disfigurement if it is not treated. The prognosis for BCC depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer.

Prevention of BCC

The following measures can help to prevent BCC:

• Avoid sun exposure: The best way to prevent BCC is to avoid sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10am-4pm).
• Wear protective clothing: When you are outdoors, wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves, pants, and a hat.
• Use sunscreen: Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, and reapply it every two hours.
• Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit UV radiation, which can increase the risk of BCC.
• Get regular skin checks: See a dermatologist regularly for skin checks. This can help to detect BCCs early, when they are most treatable.

Conclusion

BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, but it is also one of the most treatable. If you have a suspicious skin lesion, see a dermatologist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent BCC from causing serious problems.