Comprehensive basal cell carcinoma treatment at the Center for Surgical Dermatology
What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, accounting for 80% of all diagnosed skin cancer cases. It develops in the basal cells, which are located in the lower part of the epidermis (top layer of skin).
When exposed to ultraviolet light, basal cells can acquire mutations within their DNA. When these mutations go unrepaired, the cells reproduce in an uncontrolled manner; this leads to the development of cancerous growths.
Basal Cell Carcinoma FAQs
Given that basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in the United States, you likely have several questions and concerns about it. Browse our helpful FAQs section where our dermatologists discuss what causes basal cell carcinoma, the risk factors associated with this skin cancer, symptoms of this skin cancer, what it looks like, and how we treat basal cell carcinoma in Westerville, Ohio.
Basal cell carcinoma is generally caused by UV exposure, such as the UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. Ultraviolet radiation can trigger mutations within cells, causing them to rapidly reproduce out of control.
Basal cell carcinoma can take several forms, often developing on the skin as a:
It’s important to note that since basal cell carcinoma is most likely caused by UV rays, it generally shows up on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, scalp, ears, hands, and neck.
This type of skin cancer rarely causes pain when it’s developing. However, since basal cell carcinomas affect the health of the skin, the area may bleed after a minor injury and form a scab when healing. This may cause some tenderness.
Basal cell carcinoma has a minimal chance of spreading beyond the original site. Only in exceptionally rare situations does it spread (metastasize) to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
Basal cell carcinoma grows very slowly, sometimes so slowly that they go unnoticed for years before the individual schedules a skin cancer screening with a board-certified dermatologist. Because they are so slow-growing, basal cell carcinomas are often very easy to treat with our advanced skin cancer treatments in Westerville, Ohio.
Several risk factors can increase your BCC risk, including:
You can reduce your risk of basal cell carcinoma by regularly applying sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher, seeking shade when possible, wearing protective clothing, eating an antioxidant-rich diet, and visiting a board-certified dermatologist for annual skin cancer screenings.
To schedule your skin cancer screening in Westerville, Ohio, please contact our clinic by calling (614) 847-4100 or requesting an appointment online using our website form.
There are several treatment options for basal cell carcinoma. Determining the optimal treatment option depends on the microscopic pattern of the cancer, the location on the body, the size of the skin cancer, and factors specific to each patient.
At the Center for Surgical Dermatology, we use the following basal cell carcinoma treatments at our state-of-the-art dermatology clinic in Westerville:
After examining your health and the pathology report findings, your doctor will determine which treatment is right for you. If you have a specific question about our basal cell carcinoma treatments or would like to schedule an appointment, reach out to our dermatology clinic.
Basal Cell Carcinoma Photos
It can be hard to detect basal cell carcinoma in many cases due to its slow-growing nature and indistinct warning signs. When next examining your skin, keep an eye out for these basal cell carcinoma symptoms featured in our helpful photo gallery below. If you notice anything on your skin that doesn’t look quite right, we urge you to make an appointment with an experienced provider as soon as possible for a professional skin evaluation.
Small pearly bump that may bleed, develop a crust or form a depression in the center.
A flat or slightly raised broad growth that usually does not bleed but grows slowly over several years.
More uncommonly a white firm subtle scar-like growth that often times has significant spread under the skin.
Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment near Westerville, Ohio
Have you noticed signs of basal cell carcinoma on your skin? Or do you need a personalized basal cell carcinoma treatment plan after being diagnosed with this common skin cancer? Consult with the highly-trained providers at the Center for Surgical Dermatology.
Our team has years of experience evaluating, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, and can help you restore and maintain the health of your skin.
Schedule your skin cancer treatment in Westerville, Ohio, by requesting an appointment online or by calling our clinic at (614) 847-4100.
Have questions or concerns? Please give us a call at 614.847.4100.