Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the basal cells.

Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin, though it can take other forms like a reddish plaque or an ulcer. Basal cell carcinoma occurs most often on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, such as your head, neck and the extremities.

Most basal cell carcinomas are thought to be caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight mainly on people with fair skin. It occurs when one of the skin’s basal cells develops a mutation in its DNA.

Avoiding the sun especially between 11 am and 16 pm and using sunscreen may help protect against basal cell carcinoma.

Factors that increase your risk of basal cell carcinoma include chronic sun exposure, fair skin, older age, radiation therapy, immunosuppressant drugs, personal or family history of skin cancer and rare genetic syndromes.

With the clinical examination and dermoscopy from a board certified dermatologist the lesion can be diagnosed early and will be treated according to the guidelines. A biopsy is usually indicated in order to specify the type of skin cancer.

To reduce your risk of basal cell carcinoma avoid the sun exposure during the middle of the day, wear sunscreen and UV protective clothing, avoid tanning beds. Regular check up’s from a dermatologist will help to detect the skin cancer early.

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