Skin Cancer - Basal Cell Carcinoma

 

Are you ready for the summer sun? In my family, we are highly aware of the risks of overexposure to that brightest of orbs. My parents have had several basal cell carcinomas removed over time, and my sister has just had her first removed. However, medical science has learned more over time about how to avoid and treat skin cancers. If we learn a few basic facts and preventive tips, all of us can enjoy our time outdoors without much worry this summer.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer, but regarded as the least deadly, If it is caught and treated early. This cancer forms in the deepest layer of the epidermis at the top of the skin. These growths are found mainly on the face, but could occur anywhere on the body.

Basal cell carcinoma is caused mainly by sun exposure. At highest risk are those individuals with fair skin, light eyes and red hair. Sometimes those who have tattoos, work with toxic materials, or are exposed to frequest radiation are more prone to these cancers. Basal cell carcinoma is mostly found in older persons, but is increasing among members of the younger population, too. People who are found to have one basal cell carcinoma frequently will continue to need treatment for new growths in the future. There is a high rate of recurrence.

The warning signs for a basal cell carcinoma are these: a pink growth with a raised border and crusting in the center, or a shiny bump that is white, pink or red. The bump can look more like a mole, particularly in people with dark hair. It can also appear as a red patch that sometimes crusts, hurts, or itches. A quite common sign is an open sore that refuses to heal. A frequently missed type of basal cell carcinoma appears as a scar with no evident borders, that appears a shiny or waxy white or yellow. If you see any of these warning signs, see a dermatologist as soon as possible. Whether or not your growth is a carcinoma will be determined by biopsy.

There are several possible treatments for a basal cell carcinoma, depending on health and age of the patient and what kind of growth it is, location of the growth, and the depth of it. The treatment is outpatient at a clinic or the doctor’s office, and usually is done with anesthetic, with little pain or discomfort afterwards.

Mohs microscopic surgery is regarded as the best method of removing a basal cell carcinoma, especially when the growth is in a tender location on the face. This is because it is performed slowly, stopping the procedure at different points to check the tissue for cancer cells, until the entire growth is removed and snows no remaining cancer. If the tumor is deep, there may be plastic surgery done after the procedure if necessary. There is a 98% expected cure rate if the Mohs procedure is followed.

Alternatively, the tumor may be removed with a scalpel, the wound stitched. The tumor is then sent to the lab to be sure all the cancer has been removed. This method is called excision.

Another technique, curettage and electrodessication is performed by the surgeon using a sharp instrument called a curette to scrape off the growth. Then the area is cauterized with an electrocautery needle to control bleeding and destroy any tumor tissue that may remain.

Other therapies for basal cell carcinoma are not surgical, and therefore less invasive; however, the rate of the cure is usually not as great as the surgical procedures allow. They are usually performed rather than surgery if there is some special health risk to the patient from surgery, if the patient is overly sensitive to anesthesia, or if surgery has not been completely effective. These methods are radiation therapy, laser surgery, cryosurgery, photodynamic therapy and topical medications.

Basal cell carcinomas may not be the deadliest, but needless to say it is best to avoid their risk. In order to avoid these growths, you should maintain reasonable health and safety habits when it comes to the sun. Children are especially sensitive, with their tender skin. Make sure that kids over the age of six months have sunscreen on any exposed skin. Infants should not be exposed at all.

When you go outside, avoid the sun from ten a.m. till four p.m. When you go into the sun, wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and a hat. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every couple of hours and more often if you are active. Don’t lie in the sun just to tan, and avoid UV tanning booths! Remain aware of the appearance of your skin and check it every month for any new growths, even if what seems to be an ordinary freckle or mole changes appearance. You may want a yearly dermatological exam if skin cancer runs in your family.

You can enjoy the out of doors this summer, but remember your sun safety tips and stay aware!