Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of cancer worldwide. In the vast majority of cases, it is thought to be caused by exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. It is becoming more common, perhaps because people may be spending more time outdoors. Some believe that the decrease in the ozone layer is allowing more ultraviolet radiation from the sun to reach the earth's surface. Basal cell cancer does not usually metastasize or travel in the bloodstream; rather it infiltrates the surrounding area destroying tissue. For this reason, basal cell cancer should be treated promptly by your dermatologist with dermatologic surgical techniques.
What does basal cell cancer look like?
Basal cell cancer most often appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, chest, back and legs. These tumors can have several different forms. The most common appearance of basal cell cancer is that of a small dome-shaped bump that has a pearly white color. Blood vessels may be seen on the surface. Basal cell cancer can also appear as a pimple-like growth that heals, only to come back again and again. A less common form called morpheaform, looks like a smooth white or yellowish waxy scar. A very common sign of basal cell cancer is a sore that bleeds, heals up, only to recur again.
If you have a sore that doesn't heal or that looks like any of the growths pictured here, you should call healthcare professionals at Premiére Dermatology and Surgery to make an appointment for evaluation. After examining the growth, our provider will decide whether or not to perform a biopsy. A biopsy is a simple procedure done in the office under local anesthesia.
The biopsy results will indicate whether you have a basal cell cancer and what kind of basal cell cancer it is. At this point, we will consult with you on the best therapeutic and cosmetically acceptable means of curing the lesion.
Dr. Boutté and her staff possess extensive training in multiple therapeutic approaches to all types of skin cancers. Please be sure to check our website frequently for upcoming free cancer screenings. These are usually hosted twice a year here at Premiére Dermatology and Surgery. We strongly believe that "prevention is the best medicine".
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