Basal Cell Cancer

Overview

Basal cell cancer is one of the most common type of skin cancer. It usually appears on sun-exposed areas of the body but particularly the face and neck.

Signs and Symptoms

Pink, pearly white or skin-coloured papules or plaques , Papules with telangiectasias, Non-healing scabs, Black, brown or blue skin lesion with rolled border, Scaly and reddish patch that can increase in size over time, White, waxy, scar-like lesion without a clear, defined border

Common Causes

Gene mutation in basal cells, Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds, Exposure to certain chemicals such as arsenic

Risk Factors

Increasing age, Fair skin especially skin that burns easily but does not tan, Having unusual moles or many moles, Large number of freckles, Sunspots, Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds, Exposure to certain chemicals such as arsenic, History of severe sunburn, Having conditions such as xeroderma pigmentosum or basal cell naevus syndrome, History of skin cancer, Weakened immune system due to conditions such as organ transplants or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

Investigation Techniques

Medical history, Skin examination, Biopsy procedures such as punch biopsy, excisional biopsy or incisional biopsy

Treatment and Prevention

Surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, Curettage and electrocautery, Cryotherapy, Anti-cancer creams such as 5-fluorouracil and imiquimod, Photodynamic therapy, Radiation therapy, Can be prevented by wearing sunscreen, avoid direct sunlight during the middle of the day, wear protective clothing and avoid tanning beds