What is a Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are a form of skin cancer. They are also known as rodent ulcers. They are the most common form of skin cancer, and the most common cancer overall in the UK with over 80,000 cases occurring a year (compared to about 40,000 lung cancer cases).
Who is at risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma?
BCC is more likely to occur in the following groups of people:
- Over 50’s – though an increasing number of cases are now seen in people in their 20’s, 30’s and 40’s
- Fair skin, light hair and light eyes
- Excessive sun exposure including during childhood, on holidays and on sunbeds
- Previous sun burns
What are the signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Nodular BCC is appears as a pink spot that grows over a period of months to years. Bright red blood vessels may be seen on the surface. Lesions eventually ulcerate and look crusty. Bleeding and scabbing is common at this stage. Nodular BCCs are common on the face and neck.
Superficial BCC is different and presents as a circular bright pink patch. This also grows, and can eventually ulcerate. Superficial BCCs are common on the trunk.
All BCCs have roots that extend beyond the visible elements of the tumour, much like the roots of a weed. If only the surface of a weed is removed, then it will grow back. This also applies to BCCs.
What can I do to reduce my chance of developing Basal Cell Carcinoma?
It is important to take sensible precautions about the sun, and to avoid burning at all costs and to keep tanning to a minimum. More advice on sun protection can be obtained here.
What should I do if I think I have a Basal Cell Carcinoma or if I want to get my skin checked?
If you have any lesions that look irregular or crusty, or that are changing in size, shape or colour, or if you would like a head-to-toe check of your skin by an expert, then arrange to see Dr Martin-Clavijo. We offer a full skin cancer screening service.
What is the treatment for Basal Cell Carcinoma?
The main treatment is surgical excision. The BCC and a predetermined safety margin of normal skin surrounding the growth is excised. This is important as if any roots are left behind, then there is a chance that the BCC may regrow. Surgical excision leads to cure rates in excess of 90%.
The most accurate form of surgery for BCC is Mohs Micrographic Surgery. This method of surgery leads to the highest cure rates, in excess of 95%. With Mohs Surgery, the specimen of skin is removed and analysed under the microscope to ensure all the roots are removed. If any roots remain, then further skin is obtained in only those areas that are involved. This allows complete tumour clearance and sparing of unaffected skin. Dr Martin-Clavijo one of the few centres in the UK offering this highly advanced technique for skin cancer treatment.
A minority of small, superficial BCCs can be treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy or topical creams such as Aldara (Imiquimod).
What is the outlook for someone who has had Basal Cell Carcinomas?
The prognosis (outlook) after a Basal Cell Carcinoma is excellent. Providing it has been correctly treated, the risk of recurrence is under 5 to 10%. BCCs do not spread to other organs and therefore do not shorten life.
Links
British Association of Dermatologists