4-Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is a malignant type of tumor that has a defined progressive growth with the potential to metastasize if not detected early and left untreated. However, if the tumor is detected early and thoroughly excised, basal cell carcinoma presents the best prognosis out of all the types of skin cancer.
In order to facilitate early diagnosis, it is important to understand that there are various types of Basal Cell Carcinoma.
Nodular Basal Cell Carcinomas can be described as small lumps on the skin that possess a glossy surface. These types of tumors typically develop as small sores or open lesions with a center scab. Nodular Basal Cell Carcinomas are often confused with sebaceous hyperplasia, which is a condition in which sebaceous glands surround a single hair follicle. The yellowish coloration of the sebaceous hyperplasia is their most distinct difference.
Basal cell carcinomas can also adopt the appearance of irregular patches of brown or reddish coloration. Unfortunately, they can be easily confused with benign patches of dry skin, patches of actinic keratosis, or even psoriasis. However, these carcinomas will not respond favorably to any type of topical dermatological treatment. Patients will typically take notice and wonder if something is amiss only after weeks or months have passed without any apparent healing.
Basal cell carcinomas arise far more frequently in areas of skin that have received even moderate exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. For example, The Nodular type of basal cell carcinomas occur most frequently on the head or neck, while the other types usually occur in the arms and legs.
One of the most unfortunate and worrying facts about Basal cell carcinomas is that they typically develop without generating any pain or discomfort. And while Basal cell carcinoma is the least aggressive type of skin cancer, if left untreated, it has the potential to severely damage the surrounding tissues.
The recommended avenue of treatment consists of surgical excision, although there are other non-surgical treatments that are also effective in specific circumstances.