Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of all skin cancer cases. It is slow-growing cancer that originates in the basal cells, which are the cells at the base of the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis).
Basal cell carcinomas are typically found on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck, and arms. While basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer, it is not usually life-threatening. However, if left untreated, it can cause significant cosmetic damage and disfigurement, as well as invade nearby tissues.
What Is A Basal Cell?
Basal cells, one of the three major cell types in the epidermis, are shed as new ones develop. basal cell carcinoma most frequently arises when basal cells in the outermost layer of skin (epidermis), the epidermis, undergo alterations brought on by DNA damage from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning, which leads to uncontrolled growth.
Read More:- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/basal-cell
Types Of Basal Cell Carcinoma
There are several types of basal cell carcinomas, including:
- Nodular basal cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of basal cell carcinoma, accounting for about 60-70% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Nodular basal cell carcinomas are usually round, raised, and smooth, with a pearly or translucent appearance. They may be pink, red, brown, or the same color as the surrounding skin.
- Superficial basal cell carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma is less common than nodular basal cell carcinoma, accounting for about 10-20% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Superficial basal cell carcinomas are usually flat, scaly patches that are pink, red, or the same color as the surrounding skin. They may also be itchy or tender.
- Morpheaform basal cell carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma is also less common, accounting for about 5-10% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Morpheaform basal cell carcinomas are usually white, yellow, or waxy, with a well-defined, raised border and a sunken center. They may resemble scars or scaly patches of skin.
- Pigmented basal cell carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma is relatively uncommon, accounting for about 5-10% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Pigmented basal cell carcinomas are usually brown or black, with a well-defined border and a flat or raised appearance. They may resemble moles or freckles.
- Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma is relatively uncommon, accounting for about 5% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Infiltrative basal cell carcinomas are usually flat or slightly raised, with an irregular border and a scaly or crusty surface. They may invade surrounding tissues, making them difficult to treat and more likely to cause scarring or disfigurement.
- Microcystic basal cell carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma is very rare, accounting for about 1% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Microcystic basal cell carcinomas are usually small, cyst-like, and translucent or pearly, with a well-defined border. They may be surrounded by a rim of inflamed skin.
- Basosquamous basal cell carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma is very rare, accounting for less than 1% of all basal cell carcinoma cases. Basosquamous basal cell carcinomas have features of both basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, which are another type of skin cancer. They are usually firm, raised, and scaly, with a well-defined border and a yellow, white, or waxy appearance.
Read More:- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3573444/
Causes Of Basal Cell Carcinoma
The development of basal cell carcinoma is multifactorial and involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Here, we will discuss some of the primary causes of basal cell carcinoma.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the primary cause of basal cell carcinoma. Exposure to UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, which can lead to mutations and the development of cancerous growths. The risk of basal cell carcinoma increases with cumulative sun exposure over time, as well as with intermittent high-intensity exposure, such as sunburns. People with fair skin, light eyes, and light hair are at higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, as they have less melanin, which provides natural protection against UV radiation.
Individuals with a family history of skin cancer are also at increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. Genetic mutations can be passed down from one generation to the next, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer. In particular, people with basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) have a much higher risk of developing multiple basal cell carcinomas in their lifetime. BCNS is an inherited condition that causes the development of numerous basal cell carcinomas at an early age.
Other risk factors for basal cell carcinoma include age, gender, and exposure to certain chemicals. As people age, their skin becomes thinner and less able to repair itself, increasing the risk of developing skin cancer. Men are more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma than women, and people who work with certain chemicals, such as arsenic, are also at increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma.
In addition to these factors, lifestyle habits can also contribute to the development of basal cell carcinoma. Smoking, for example, has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer. Smoking damages the skin and impairs its ability to repair itself, which can increase the risk of cancerous growth. Exposure to secondhand smoke can also increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma.
Finally, certain medical conditions and medications can also increase the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. For example, people with a weakened immune system, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those who have undergone an organ transplant, are at increased risk of developing skin cancer. Some medications, such as immunosuppressants, can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
Symptoms Of Basal Cell Carcinoma
basal cell carcinoma usually develops in sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the face, neck, scalp, ears, and hands, but can occur anywhere on the skin. basal cell carcinoma is slow-growing cancer that rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but can cause significant local damage if left untreated. The following are the symptoms of basal cell carcinoma.
- A pearly or waxy bump: One of the most common signs of basal cell carcinoma is a pearly or waxy bump that appears on the skin. This bump may be small or large and can be flesh-colored or pink. It may have a smooth, shiny surface, or it may have a slightly scaly texture. The bump may bleed or ooze, and it may develop a crust or scab. If left untreated, the bump may grow larger and deeper into the skin.
- A flat, scaly patch: basal cell carcinoma can also appear as a flat, scaly patch on the skin. This patch may be tan, brown, or black, and it may have a slightly raised border. It may feel rough or scaly to the touch, and it may itch or bleed. This type of basal cell carcinoma is more common in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, scalp, and neck.
- A pink or red growth: basal cell carcinoma can also appear as a pink or red growth on the skin. This growth may be dome-shaped or slightly raised, and it may have visible blood vessels. It may be itchy or painful, and it may bleed or crust over. This type of basal cell carcinoma is more common in areas that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the head and neck.
- An open sore: basal cell carcinoma can also appear as an open sore on the skin. This sore may not heal and may continue to ooze or bleed. It may have a raised, rolled border, and it may be surrounded by an area of inflamed skin. This type of basal cell carcinoma is more common on the face, neck, and hands.
- A scar-like area: basal cell carcinoma can also appear as a scar-like area on the skin. This area may be white or yellow, and it may be firm or flaky. It may be surrounded by an area of inflamed skin, and it may be itchy or painful. This type of basal cell carcinoma is more common on the face and neck.
- A growth with dark spots: basal cell carcinoma can also appear as a growth with dark spots on the skin. This growth may be brown or black, and it may have a slightly raised or flat surface. It may be surrounded by an area of inflamed skin, and it may be itchy or painful. This type of basal cell carcinoma is more common on the face, neck, and trunk.
- A growth that looks like a mole: basal cell carcinoma can also appear as a growth that looks like a mole on the skin. This growth may be brown or black, and it may have a slightly raised or flat surface. It may have irregular borders, and it may be surrounded by an area of inflamed skin. This type of basal cell carcinoma is more common on the face, neck, and trunk.
Diagnosis Of Basal Cell Carcinoma
The diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma usually begins with a visual inspection of the skin by a dermatologist or other healthcare provider. During this examination, the healthcare provider will look for any signs of skin lesions or growths that may be indicative of basal cell carcinoma. These growths may appear as small, shiny, pink, or red bumps on the skin, or as flat, scaly patches of skin that may be pink or color. In some cases, basal cell carcinoma may also appear as a small, raised, white or yellowish spot on the skin.
If the healthcare provider suspects that a lesion or growth may be basal cell carcinoma, they will typically perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small sample of the affected skin is removed and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The laboratory will examine the sample under a microscope to look for the characteristic features of basal cell carcinoma, such as the presence of abnormal cells in the skin.
There are several different types of biopsies that can be used to diagnose basal cell carcinoma, including shave biopsies, punch biopsies, and excisional biopsies. Shave biopsies involve removing a thin layer of skin from the surface of the lesion, while punch biopsies involve removing a small cylindrical piece of skin from the lesion. Excisional biopsies involve removing the entire lesion along with a margin of the surrounding skin.
In some cases, additional tests may be performed to help diagnose basal cell carcinoma or to determine the extent of the disease. For example, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to determine whether cancer has spread beyond the skin. Blood tests may also be used to check for abnormalities in blood cell counts or liver function, which can be a sign of more advanced disease.
Once basal cell carcinoma has been diagnosed, the treatment plan will depend on the size, location, and extent of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. In many cases, basal cell carcinoma can be treated with simple procedures such as surgical excision or Mohs surgery, which involves removing the cancerous tissue layer by layer until no abnormal cells are present. Other treatment options may include cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold to destroy the cancerous tissue, or radiation therapy, which uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
In some cases, systemic treatments such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy may be used to treat more advanced or aggressive forms of basal cell carcinoma. These treatments work by targeting cancer cells throughout the body rather than just in the skin and can be effective in cases where cancer has spread beyond the skin.
Read More:- https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common/bcc/
Treatment Of Basal Cell Carcinoma
There are a number of effective treatment options available for basal cell carcinoma.
Surgery is the most common treatment for basal cell carcinoma, and there are several types of surgical procedures that can be used, depending on the size and location of the tumor. The most common type of surgery for basal cell carcinoma is called Mohs micrographic surgery, which involves removing the tumour layer by layer until all of the cancerous tissue has been removed. This is a highly precise and effective form of surgery that is particularly useful for treating basal cell carcinoma on the face, where the preservation of healthy tissue is particularly important.
Another surgical option is excisional surgery, in which the entire tumour and some surrounding healthy tissue are removed with a scalpel or other cutting instrument. This method is often used for smaller basal cell carcinomas that are not located in particularly sensitive areas.
Curettage and electrodesiccation is another surgical method used for treating basal cell carcinoma s. It involves scraping the tumour away with a special instrument called a curette, followed by applying heat to the area to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Radiation therapy can also be used to treat basal cell carcinoma, particularly in cases where surgery is not a viable option. This treatment involves using high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. While radiation therapy can be effective for treating basal cell carcinoma, it is generally used only for small tumours and for patients who are not good candidates for surgery.
Topical medications can also be used to treat basal cell carcinoma. One commonly used medication is imiquimod, which stimulates the immune system to attack and destroy cancer cells. Another medication, called 5-fluorouracil, works by interfering with the DNA synthesis of cancer cells, causing them to die.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a treatment that involves applying a special medication to the skin and then exposing the area to a specific type of light. The medication is absorbed by cancer cells, making them sensitive to light. When the light is applied, it activates the medication, which then destroys the cancer cells. PDT is generally used for superficial basal cell carcinomas.
In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used to treat basal cell carcinoma. For example, a patient may undergo surgery to remove the tumour, followed by radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
The choice of treatment for basal cell carcinoma depends on a number of factors, including the size and location of the tumour, the patient’s age and overall health, and the potential for scarring or disfigurement. Patients should discuss their treatment options with their doctor to determine the best course of action.
After treatment, patients will need to be monitored regularly to ensure that cancer does not return. Regular follow-up appointments with a dermatologist or other healthcare provider are essential for detecting any new or recurring skin cancers.
Read More:- https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/basal-cell-carcinoma/bcc-treatment-options/
Prevention Of Basal Cell Carcinoma
One of the most important ways to prevent basal cell carcinoma is to avoid excessive sun exposure. This can be accomplished by staying indoors during peak UV radiation hours, which are typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It is also important to wear protective clothing such as hats and long-sleeved shirts and to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Another way to prevent basal cell carcinoma is to avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds emit UV radiation that can be just as damaging as the sun’s rays. It is best to avoid tanning beds altogether, but if one chooses to use them, it is important to wear protective eyewear and limit the time spent in the bed.
Regular skin examinations are also important in the prevention of basal cell carcinoma. Any changes in the appearance of moles or freckles, or the development of new growths on the skin, should be promptly examined by a dermatologist. Early detection of basal cell carcinoma can greatly increase the chances of successful treatment and prevent the need for more extensive surgery.
In addition to these measures, there are several lifestyle factors that can help prevent basal cell carcinoma. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, and low in processed and fried foods, can help support the immune system and protect against cancer. Regular exercise can also help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, including skin cancer.
Smoking should be avoided, as it is a major risk factor for many types of cancer, including basal cell carcinoma. Excessive alcohol consumption should also be avoided, as it can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of developing cancer.
Finally, it is important to seek medical attention if any suspicious growths or changes in the skin are noticed. Early detection and prompt treatment can greatly improve the chances of a full recovery.
Is basal cell carcinoma A Threat?
Beyond the initial tumour site, basal cell carcinoma seldom metastasizes. However, these lesions have a chance to spread and turn harmful and disfiguring. basal cell carcinomas that are left untreated can invade the local area, spread widely, penetrate deeply, and obliterate bone, skin, and other soft tissues. It is more likely that the basal cell carcinoma will return, possibly frequently, the longer you wait to get treatment.
When basal cell carcinoma spreads to other body regions, there are some incredibly rare, aggressive cases. This particular basal cell carcinoma type can be fatal in extremely uncommon circumstances.
How Common Is basal cell carcinoma?
Basal cell cancer is rather typical. In the United States, there have been an increasing number of reported cases.
- basal cell carcinoma is thought to affect 3.6 million Americans annually.
- basal cell carcinoma makes up the majority of skin malignancies, which account for more than one in three newly diagnosed cases of cancer.
- Between 1994 and 2014, there was a 77 percent increase in the detection and treatment of nonmelanoma skin malignancies, including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
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