Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. If you’re planning to see a dermatologist for skin cancer treatment after being diagnosed with this skin condition, then read on to learn about basal cell carcinoma.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
In America alone, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is diagnosed in over 4 million cases each year. BCCs are uncontrolled, abnormal lesions or growths that develop in the basal cells of the skin, which line the epidermis’ deepest layer. A BCC usually manifests as a shiny bump, open sore, scar, pink growth, or red patch, and this type of skin cancer rarely metastasizes past the original site of the tumor.
Causes
Intense, extended exposure to the sun combined with the long-term exposure that occurs over a person’s lifetime can cause BCCs. These cancerous growths almost always develop on areas of the body that get the most sun exposure, such as the scalp, face, ears, neck, back, and shoulders. Also, infections, scars, vaccinations, chronic inflammatory skin conditions, poor healing sores, radiation exposure, arsenic contact, burn complications, and tattoos can be contributing factors.
Risk Factors
Having a history of significant sun exposure increases your risk for BCC. Also, people who have red or blond hair, fair skin, and eyes that are gray, green, or blue have the highest risk of developing this type of skin cancer.
Signs
5 warning signs can indicate BCC, and at least 2 of these are normally seen in a single tumor. A non-healing sore that bleeds, seals, and then reopens is a common indicator of BCC. Shiny nodules that are black, brown, white, red, or pink in color and irritated or reddish patches of skin can also be signs of BCC. Finally, the presence of a pink growth with an indentation in the center or a scar-like mark that appears waxy, yellow, or white can indicate the presence of a BCC.
Arlington Dermatology offers skin cancer treatment in Arlington Heights. To schedule your appointment, please call [company-phone id=1].
