What are the warning signs of basal cell carcinoma. How can you identify BCC on your skin. What treatment options are available for basal cell carcinoma. How can you prevent BCC from recurring. Why is early detection crucial for successful treatment of basal cell carcinoma.

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma: The Most Common Skin Cancer

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent form of skin cancer worldwide. While it’s rarely life-threatening, early detection and treatment are crucial for successful outcomes. This article delves into the warning signs, symptoms, and treatment options for BCC, providing valuable information for those concerned about their skin health.

5 Key Warning Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Recognizing the early signs of BCC is essential for prompt diagnosis and treatment. Here are the five primary warning signs to watch for:

1. An open sore that doesn’t heal
2. A reddish patch or irritated area
3. A shiny bump or nodule
4. A small pink growth with a rolled edge
5. A scar-like area that is flat and pale

Is it possible for BCCs to have different appearances? Yes, BCCs can sometimes resemble other skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. In people with darker skin tones, about half of BCCs are pigmented, appearing brown in color. If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for a professional evaluation.

Identifying Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Closer Look at Symptoms

To help you better understand what to look for, let’s examine each warning sign in more detail:

1. The Persistent Open Sore

A common manifestation of BCC is an open sore that refuses to heal. These lesions may bleed, ooze, or develop a crust. They can persist for weeks or seem to heal temporarily before reappearing. If you have a sore that doesn’t heal within three weeks, it’s advisable to seek medical attention.

2. The Irritated Red Patch

BCCs can present as reddish patches or irritated areas on the skin. These are most commonly found on the face, chest, shoulders, arms, or legs. While they may crust over, itch, or cause discomfort, some remain asymptomatic. Any persistent red patch warrants a dermatologist’s examination.

3. The Shiny Bump

Another telltale sign of BCC is a shiny, pearly bump on the skin. These nodules can be clear, pink, red, or white in color. In individuals with darker skin tones, they may appear tan, brown, or black, potentially being mistaken for a mole. Any new, shiny growths should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

4. The Pink Growth with Rolled Edges

BCCs may manifest as small pink growths with a characteristic rolled edge and a crusted indentation in the center. Over time, these lesions may develop tiny surface blood vessels. If you notice such a growth, especially one that’s changing or growing, consult your dermatologist promptly.

5. The Scar-like Area

Some BCCs appear as flat, scar-like areas on the skin. These lesions are typically white, yellow, or waxy in color, with a shiny, taut appearance. The borders of these growths may be poorly defined. Any scar-like area that develops without a known injury should be examined by a skin specialist.

The Importance of Early Detection in Basal Cell Carcinoma

Why is early detection so crucial in cases of basal cell carcinoma? Early diagnosis and treatment of BCC significantly improve the chances of successful removal without complications. When caught early, almost all BCCs can be effectively treated, minimizing the risk of recurrence or spread to surrounding tissues.

How can you improve your chances of early detection? Regular self-examinations and annual check-ups with a dermatologist are key. Pay close attention to areas of your skin that receive frequent sun exposure, such as your face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, shoulders, and back. However, remember that BCCs can occur anywhere on the body, so a thorough full-body examination is essential.

Treatment Options for Basal Cell Carcinoma

What are the available treatment options for basal cell carcinoma? The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the size, location, and subtype of the BCC, as well as the patient’s overall health. Here are some common treatment approaches:

• Surgical excision
• Mohs micrographic surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Cryosurgery
• Topical medications
• Photodynamic therapy
• Laser surgery

Which treatment is most effective for BCC? Mohs micrographic surgery is often considered the gold standard for treating BCCs, especially in high-risk areas like the face or for recurrent tumors. This technique allows for the removal of all cancerous cells while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible.

Preventing Recurrence: Strategies for Long-term Skin Health

After successful treatment of a basal cell carcinoma, what steps can you take to prevent recurrence? Here are some essential strategies:

1. Conduct regular self-examinations
2. Schedule annual skin checks with a dermatologist
3. Protect your skin from UV radiation
4. Avoid tanning beds and sun lamps
5. Wear protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen
6. Stay vigilant about changes in your skin

How effective are these preventive measures? While they can’t guarantee you’ll never develop another BCC, they significantly reduce your risk. Consistent sun protection and regular skin checks are particularly crucial for those who have already had a BCC, as they’re at higher risk for developing additional skin cancers.

Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma: When Common Becomes Complex

Can basal cell carcinoma become advanced or life-threatening? While most BCCs are easily treated, a small percentage can become advanced, particularly if left untreated for an extended period. Advanced BCCs may grow deep into the skin and surrounding tissues, making them more challenging to treat and potentially causing significant damage.

What factors contribute to the development of advanced BCC? Several factors can increase the risk of a BCC becoming advanced:

• Delayed diagnosis and treatment
• Location on high-risk areas (e.g., around the eyes, nose, or ears)
• Aggressive subtypes of BCC
• Weakened immune system
• Previous radiation therapy to the area

How are advanced BCCs treated? Treatment for advanced BCC may involve a combination of approaches, including extensive surgery, radiation therapy, and targeted drug therapies. In recent years, new targeted therapies have been developed for advanced BCCs that are not suitable for surgery or radiation, offering hope for patients with previously limited options.

The Role of Genetics in Basal Cell Carcinoma

Is there a genetic component to basal cell carcinoma? While sun exposure is the primary risk factor for BCC, genetics can play a role in some cases. Certain inherited conditions, such as Gorlin syndrome (also known as nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome), can significantly increase a person’s risk of developing multiple BCCs throughout their lifetime.

What genetic factors influence BCC development? Research has identified several genes that may contribute to BCC risk, including:

• PTCH1 gene mutations
• SMO gene alterations
• TP53 gene mutations

How does understanding the genetic aspects of BCC impact treatment? Identifying genetic risk factors can help guide prevention strategies and treatment decisions. For individuals with genetic predispositions to BCC, more frequent skin examinations and aggressive sun protection measures may be recommended.

Innovations in Basal Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis and Treatment

What recent advancements have been made in BCC diagnosis and treatment? The field of dermatology continues to evolve, bringing new technologies and treatment options for patients with basal cell carcinoma. Some notable innovations include:

Advanced Imaging Techniques

How are new imaging technologies improving BCC diagnosis? Techniques such as reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) allow dermatologists to visualize skin lesions at a cellular level without the need for a biopsy. These non-invasive methods can help in early detection and precise mapping of tumor margins.

Targeted Therapies

What targeted therapies are available for advanced BCC? Hedgehog pathway inhibitors, such as vismodegib and sonidegib, have shown promise in treating advanced or metastatic BCCs. These drugs target specific molecular pathways involved in BCC growth, offering a new avenue for treatment when surgery or radiation is not feasible.

Immunotherapy

Can immunotherapy be used to treat BCC? While immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of many cancers, its role in BCC is still being explored. Early studies suggest that certain immunotherapy drugs may be effective in some cases of advanced BCC, particularly for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

Photodynamic Therapy Advancements

How has photodynamic therapy evolved for BCC treatment? Newer photosensitizing agents and light sources have improved the efficacy of photodynamic therapy for superficial BCCs. This non-invasive treatment option continues to be refined, offering patients an alternative to surgery for certain types of BCC.

As research continues, these and other innovations promise to enhance our ability to diagnose, treat, and prevent basal cell carcinoma, improving outcomes for patients worldwide.

Living with Basal Cell Carcinoma: Psychological and Emotional Impacts

How does a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma affect patients psychologically? While BCC is rarely life-threatening, a cancer diagnosis of any kind can have significant emotional impacts. Patients may experience anxiety, depression, or concerns about their appearance, especially if the BCC is in a visible location or requires extensive treatment.

What strategies can help patients cope with the emotional aspects of BCC? Here are some approaches that may be beneficial:

• Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
• Consulting with a mental health professional
• Educating oneself about the condition and treatment options
• Focusing on skin cancer prevention and overall health

How can healthcare providers address the emotional needs of BCC patients? Dermatologists and other healthcare professionals play a crucial role in supporting patients’ emotional well-being. This may involve:

• Providing clear, honest information about the diagnosis and treatment
• Addressing concerns about scarring or cosmetic outcomes
• Offering resources for emotional support and counseling
• Encouraging patients to take an active role in their care and follow-up

By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of basal cell carcinoma, healthcare providers can help patients navigate their diagnosis and treatment with greater confidence and resilience.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Warning Signs and Images

With early detection and treatment, almost all basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) can be successfully removed without complications.

Look out for BCC warning signs, including new, changing or unusual skin growths, so you can spot skin cancers early, when they are easiest to treat and cure.

How to spot a BCC: five warning signs

Check for BCCs where your skin is most exposed to the sun, especially the face, ears, neck, scalp, chest, shoulders and back, but remember that they can occur anywhere on the body. Frequently, two or more of these warning signs and symptoms are apparent in a BCC tumor.

1. An open sore that does not heal, and may bleed, ooze or crust. The sore might persist for weeks, or appear to heal and then come back.
2. A reddish patch or irritated area, on the face, chest, shoulder, arm or leg that may crust, itch, hurt or cause no discomfort.
3. A shiny bump or nodule that is pearly or clear, pink, red or white. The bump can also be tan, black or brown, especially in people of color, and can be mistaken for a normal mole.
4. A small pink growth with a slightly raised, rolled edge and a crusted indentation in the center that may develop tiny surface blood vessels over time.
5. A scar-like area that is flat white, yellow or waxy in color. The skin appears shiny and taut, often with poorly defined borders. This warning sign may indicate an invasive BCC.

Please note: Since not all BCCs have the same appearance, these images serve as a general reference to what basal cell carcinoma looks like.

An open sore that does not heal

A reddish patch or irritated area

A small pink growth with a slightly raised, rolled edge and a crusted indentation in the center

A shiny bump or nodule

A scar-like area that is flat white, yellow or waxy in color

BCCs can be tricky

Keep in mind that BCCs can look different from the descriptions above. In some people, BCCs resemble noncancerous skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema. In people with darker skin, about half of BCCs are pigmented (meaning brown in color).

When in doubt, check it out. Follow your instincts and visit your dermatologist if you see anything new, changing or unusual on your skin.

A basal cell carcinoma may be pigmented, like this one, on skin of color.  Photo courtesy of Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH

What you can do

If you’ve already had a BCC, you are more likely to develop another, especially in the same sun-damaged area or nearby.

A BCC can recur even when it has been carefully removed the first time, because some cancer cells may remain undetectable after surgery and others can form roots that extend beyond what’s visible. BCCs on the nose, ears and lips are more likely to recur, usually within the first two years after surgery.

Here’s what you can do to detect a recurrence and prevent further skin damage that can lead to cancer:

• Be on the lookout: Pay particular attention to any previously treated site, note changes and consult with your dermatologist. If the BCC does return, your doctor may recommend a different type of treatment, such as Mohs surgery, a highly effective way to prevent and treat recurrences.
• Check yourself head to toe: Look for new or changing lesions that grow, bleed or do not heal. Learn how to check your skin.
• See your dermatologist annually for a professional skin exam. Self-exams do not take the place of a specialist who is skilled at identifying and treating abnormal skin growths.
• Follow up: If you’ve already had either BCC or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or a precancer like actinic keratosis, be sure to see your doctor at recommended intervals.
• Be sun-safe every day of the year: Avoid unprotected UV exposure, seek the shade, especially when the sun is strongest and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Safeguarding yourself every day is the single most effective way to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Get more skin cancer prevention guidelines.

Reviewed by:

Julie K. Karen, MD
Ronald L. Moy, MD

Last updated:  April 2022

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When a Common Skin Cancer Advances

Photo: MORSA IMAGES/DIGITALVISION/GETTY IMAGES

Among the millions of people diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) each year, most are easily treated, but some are not so lucky. Our experts explain how BCC can become advanced and, in rare cases, even life-threatening. Today there are more options for these patients, and this guide provides knowledge, navigation and support.

One of the toughest things a doctor ever has to do is deliver a cancer diagnosis — but dermatologists do it every day. Skin cancer is common; in fact, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the world’s most common cancer, so dermatologists see a lot of it. While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact number of BCC cases in the U.S., The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates it as 3.6 million a year. That’s nearly 10,000 diagnoses a day.

Some BCC Basics

• BCCs are uncontrolled growths that arise from basal cells in the outermost layer of the skin. Most BCCs are caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. UV from indoor tanning can also increase risk for BCC.
• Over time, UV radiation damages DNA in the skin. The body repairs some of the damage, but what remains unrepaired can trigger mutations that lead to skin cancer.
• Not all BCCs look alike. In fact, they might look like a pimple, a sore that doesn’t heal, a shiny bump, a scar-like area, a pink or reddish patch or something else. In patients with darker skin, about half of BCCs are pigmented (meaning brown in color). Some people develop multiple BCCs over a lifetime.
• The good news: Because skin cancer is a cancer you can see, these tumors tend to be detected early, when they are easiest to treat and have the best chance of a cure. The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Big See campaign keeps it simple: Look for anything new, changing or unusual on your skin and let your dermatologist know. With early detection and prompt treatment, almost all BCCs can be successfully cured without complications.
• The not-so-good news: There are some exceptions. “It’s essential for people to understand that in its advanced stages, BCC can be disfiguring and even deadly if left untreated, just like any other cancer,” says John Strasswimmer, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Palm Beach County, Florida, who focuses on Mohs surgery and cutaneous oncology. “We’re just lucky that we have become good at diagnosing and treating it most of the time.”

Below the Surface

BCCs are notorious for often looking like “no big deal” on the surface while growing “roots” that can burrow deep into the skin and cause damage. Like rogue tree roots that burrow into the ground and disrupt underground plumbing, cable and utility services, BCCs can invade deep into the skin and even damage nerves, muscle and bone.

“What we see with BCC on the outside may not always be what is present on the inside,” Dr. Strasswimmer explains. There are several reasons for this. Sometimes it is just the way the cancer grows. Other times it may be due to a previous treatment that didn’t remove the entire tumor. While researchers are looking into new ways of imaging that may eventually help dermatologists see what is under the skin, for now there is no crystal ball.

Luckily, though, there is Mohs surgery. This gold standard technique allows a specially trained surgeon to remove a layer of tissue at a time, examine the tissue under a microscope in an adjacent lab, identify exactly if and where any remaining cancerous cells are located and repeat the process until no microscopic cancer cells remain. The surgeon examines nearly 100 percent of the tumor margins, spares healthy tissue and leaves the smallest scar possible.

Focus on Mohs Surgery. Dr. Strasswimmer started his practice in Southeast Florida in 2005 to fill a need for specialized care for patients with advanced skin cancer. Photo: John Strasswimmer, MD, PhD

Dr. Strasswimmer recalls a patient with a very small BCC on the side of her nose that looked like a small red patch or a pimple. “When I did my first Mohs surgery layer removal, I could see that the tumor was going quite deep. By the time I got the tumor out, it was down to the bone. We had to remove the outer layer of the bone and then do some reconstruction.”

He later learned that previously the patient’s BCC had been burned off superficially by an electrolysis device for hair removal. “That removed the visible part on the surface but did not remove the whole tumor and thus allowed cancerous cells to proliferate underneath and cause a tremendous amount of devastation,” Dr. Strasswimmer says. Some people have used DIY devices and home remedies they read about to remove a lesion or mole from their skin. This is a dangerous practice that can make early detection and treatment of skin cancers such as BCCs much more difficult.

What Is Advanced BCC?

Remember, the majority of BCCs are caught early. Some very early lesions may be treated with minimally invasive options such as topical treatments, curettage and electrodesiccation, cryotherapy or laser surgery. Others may be treated with excisional surgery, Mohs surgery or radiation. (See the SCF Treatment Glossary for more information.)

However, a small proportion of tumors can become advanced and penetrate deep into the skin and surrounding tissues (locally advanced) or spread to other parts of the body (metastatic). Treatment for advanced BCC may include surgery, radiation or systemic medications, which treat the cancer from inside the body.

How do BCCs become advanced? In many cases, patients with advanced BCC have had previous treatment or multiple treatments, but the cancer has recurred or spread, says Lara A. Dunn, MD, a medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

Early Detection Is the Key! Postponing a dermatologist visit, says Dr. Strasswimmer, may allow small BCC tumors to grow and become advanced. Photo: John Strasswimmer, MD, PhD

In other cases, it is simply due to “benign neglect,” Dr. Strasswimmer says. There are lots of reasons for this, including fear of what a lesion might be, fear of what the treatment might entail or worries about medical costs or lack of insurance. He has seen many patients in his practice with advanced BCC who were diagnosed years earlier and left untreated.

“In some cases, BCCs may not be that uncomfortable,” he adds. “Patients may keep a lesion hidden from loved ones and procrastinate on seeing a doctor about it until it grows very large. People underestimate how cost-effective in-office surgery can be, which likely could have cured the BCC if treated early. Many patients have postponed seeing their dermatologist during this long pandemic, and that’s understandable. But it also can be costly — in more ways than one.”

There are two categories of advanced BCC: locally advanced and metastatic.

Locally Advanced BCC: The definition of locally advanced BCC generally includes several types of presentations: large, deep, aggressive tumors; those that have recurred after treatment; and cases where surgery or radiation would not be effective or appropriate.

“After a previous treatment, the BCC may have recurred in the area where it started, or in the surrounding area, and caused extensive damage to surrounding tissue, muscle, bone or nerves,” says Dr. Dunn. “Or it could have traveled through the regional lymphatic system into the lymph node nearest where the tumor originated.”

Some patients with locally advanced BCC have already been treated with multiple surgeries and radiation, she explains, which can make it almost impossible to get clear results with another surgery. Or, the tissue may have already been exposed to the maximum amount of radiation it can receive. Dr. Strasswimmer stresses the importance of seeing a board-certified radiation oncologist.

Dr. Dunn says there are also cases in which these tumors are neglected and have become so large that an initial surgery is not an option or would be so extensive that it would greatly affect function, such as removal of the eye, she explains. “In those situations, we might be able to try radiation. ”

Metastatic BCC: Far less common than locally advanced, metastatic BCC is when the cancer has “broken loose,” as Dr. Strasswimmer describes it, and spreads to a distant lymph node or to another organ in the body, such as the lungs, or sometimes to another area in the skin. About 70 percent of total metastatic cases spread through the lymphatic system, but they can also spread through the bloodstream or under the skin.

How Many People Develop Advanced BCC?

Because nonmelanoma skin cancer is not tracked by cancer registries in the U.S., it is difficult to pinpoint the number of BCC  cases, let alone advanced BCCs. Studies have suggested that a range of 1 to 10 percent of total cases of BCC become advanced. The Skin Cancer Foundation uses the conservative estimate of 1 percent. Of those, 95 percent are estimated as locally advanced and about 5 percent are metastatic.

Systemic Treatments for Advanced BCC

Seeing patients with advanced BCC earlier in his career “was a heartbreaking time,” Dr. Strasswimmer remembers, “because we had patients then who could not be treated. Surgery and radiation were no longer options. All we could do was to provide comfort and keep their symptoms as controlled as possible.”

Today there are newer options for these patients. For some advanced cases, patients may receive a type of medicine taken orally called hedgehog inhibitors, or HHIs. This medication works by blocking abnormal signals that promote cancerous growth. “However, if a patient develops a tumor that is resistant to these medications or has not tolerated them due to side effects, there hasn’t always been a standard backup option for them,” says Dr. Strasswimmer.

Immunotherapy is another systemic treatment option that has been helping patients with many types of advanced cancers in recent years. Immunotherapy works by using the body’s own immune system to help attack cancer cells. Intravenously infused immunotherapy medications called checkpoint inhibitors work by blocking a protein receptor called PD-1 (programmed death-1), which, under normal circumstances, helps keep the immune system in check. These drugs release T cells to fight the cancer.

Research is rapidly progressing, and keeping up with the latest advancements can make all the difference for patients. Dr. Dunn says she is hopeful that emerging therapies will provide additional options for her advanced BCC patients.

Dr. Strasswimmer is also encouraged by recent developments in the treatment of advanced BCC and the impact it could have on his patients.

Regeneron and Sanofi financially supported and collaborated in the development of this article with The Skin Cancer Foundation.

ONC.21.020031  04/2021

photos, symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment

Basalioma is a malignant skin tumor that is formed from the epidermal cells of the basal layer. It grows into adjacent tissues and organs, destroying their structure, but rarely gives metastases. Neoplasms of this type are prone to recurrence.

This is a fairly common type of skin cancer that is more common in fair-skinned and fair-haired people. Skin basalioma accounts for more than 65% of all skin neoplasms. Most often, it affects the structures of the face – the nose, upper lip, cheeks, corners of the eyes. Also, the tumor can grow in other parts of the body.

The Bilyak clinic treats all types of malignant skin tumors. Our doctors select the method of removal and other treatment procedures individually. At the same time, they try to carry out the operation with the utmost care.

Causes of the disease

The main reason for the formation of basalioma is frequent exposure of the skin to ultraviolet . It is most often found in those who like to sunbathe in the sun and in the solarium. Also at risk are residents of southern countries and those who work for a long time in the open sun – agricultural workers, builders, etc.

In addition, people who are at risk are:

• often exposed to ionizing radiation or high temperatures;
• constantly inhale toxic substances – in this case, there is often basalioma of the nose or other parts of the face;
• come into contact with carcinogens – tar, arsenic, resin, soot, dyes;
• often damaged the skin and have traces of burns, scars.

Most often, the pathology develops in people over 50 years of age. Children and young people rarely get sick with it.

How a basalioma manifests itself

The tumor usually forms on exposed skin, often on the face or neck. It looks like a small knot, the color of which can vary from flesh and pale pink to red. At first, it can be mistaken for a pimple, and no uncomfortable sensations appear.

As grows, the basalioma of the skin of the face or another area begins to change. A gray crust appears on its surface, which, when removed, exposes a small hole. After that, the crust appears again. Further, a dense roller is formed around the tumor, consisting of granular formations. Gradually, other nodules form nearby, which can merge together.

How dangerous is basalioma

Popular questions to the oncologist:

• Is basalioma very dangerous?
• Does it metastasize?
• Do people die from it?

Let’s figure it out. This type of neoplasm almost does not give metastases, but this does not mean that it is harmless. It just has a different growth mechanism. Although this tumor does not metastasize, it grows into neighboring tissues, and can affect quite deep layers. So it is able to hit vital structures and lead to the death of the patient.

Another danger is that even if the tumor is cured in time, it can recur. This occurs in about 25% of patients within 5 years of treatment. Understanding what a basalioma is, you need to promptly treat it and then regularly see a dermatologist.

Classification of basaliomas

Tumor can have different localization, clinical form, stage. It can be basalioma on the face , nose, forehead, ear, as well as on the limbs and different parts of the body.

According to the type of growth, 3 types of tumors are distinguished:

1. Nodular – the most common variant, accounting for about 60% of cases. A small, rounded formation of light pink color with a deepening inside. As it develops, it increases, turning into a bleeding sore. The edges become uneven, they are bordered by a belt of small papules resembling pearls.
2. Basalioma superficial is a less popular type, accounting for 30% of cases. It looks like a pink or red papule with clear raised edges. Its surface is shiny. This type of tumor can be difficult to distinguish from psoriasis or dermatitis. She is also the least dangerous of all and can “doze off” for years.
3. Flat basalioma is a rare type, occurring in 10% of cases. These are small plaques of a reddish color with outlined edges resembling a roller. Has a color from flesh to light red.

According to histological characteristics, a tumor of this type can be:

• sclerodermal;
• multicentric;
• fibro-epithelial.

There are only 4 stages in basalioma. At the 1st stage, it is quite tiny, no more than 2 cm in diameter. By the 2nd stage, it reaches 5 cm, and by the 3rd it goes beyond these limits. At the 4th stage, the neoplasm grows into the deep layers of the dermis, affects important organs. For example, running eyelid basalioma affects the eye and can lead to blindness.

Diagnostics

At the appointment, the doctor first interviews the patient and performs a visual examination. If a person has facial basalioma , it is visible to the naked eye. To clarify the diagnosis, dermatoscopy is performed – the neoplasm is examined with a special device with multiple magnification. This allows you to study it in detail and calculate the dermatological index.

A scraping or biopsy is taken for additional testing. The resulting biomaterial is sent for histology and cytology. With the help of a microscope, it is established what cells the tumor consists of, determine its type, degree. Additionally, CT and MRI may be needed to understand how deep basalioma on the back or another part of the body has grown into the nearest organs.

Treatment

The approach to the treatment of this pathology is selected taking into account the size, type, location of the tumor, the degree of involvement of neighboring tissues, as well as the characteristics of the patient’s body. For example, if a person has a tiny basalioma on the arm of the initial stage, it is irradiated with a short-focus x-ray pulse. Also for the early stages of the tumor can be used:

• Cryodestruction – neoplasm cells are frozen with chilled liquid nitrogen.
• Electrocoagulation – the tumor is destroyed with an electric current.
• Laser destruction – basalioma is evaporated with a laser beam.

They try to apply these sparing methods to patients who have basalioma of the lips and other visible areas of the face. They do not injure tissues and leave behind a good aesthetic effect.

Unfortunately, low-traumatic removal methods are not suitable for stage 3-4 neoplasms. Traditional surgical excision has to be used. The tumor will be removed along with adjacent healthy tissue. In the future, radiation or chemical therapy may be needed.

The method of removal and additional procedures are selected by the attending physician. It also determines the degree of urgency. For example, when patient has head basalioma , it can affect important areas of the brain and lead to death. In such cases, you can not hesitate.

Peculiarities of treatment in the clinic

Bilyak clinic has everything necessary for the treatment of skin cancers. Experienced doctors who have completed training in Europe and the USA work here. They examine you with different methods and, based on the diagnostic results, they will select the appropriate method for removing the tumor.

After that the basalioma on the forehead or any other part of the body will be carefully removed. To do this, our specialists use sparing methods and progressive techniques. Even if you have to cut it out surgically, the scar will hardly be visible. Sign up for an appointment to find out more!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does treatment cost at the Bilyak Clinic?

The cost of all operations can be found on a special page of the site

What is included in the cost of the operation?

The cost of the operation at the Bilyak Clinic includes the full provision of the patient, namely:
– surgical and medical support
– food and accommodation
– round-the-clock supervision of medical personnel
– dressings and all nursing procedures

Who performs operations and treats at the Bilyak Clinic disease?

Operations in the Bilyak Clinic are performed by PhD, chief physician, doctor of the highest category – Stepan Stepanovich Bilyak0005

Basalioma – symptoms, causes, signs, diagnosis and treatment in “SM-Clinic”

This disease is treated by an Oncologist
, oncosurgeon
, Oncodermatologist

• What is basalioma?
• Types of basalioma
• Symptoms of basalioma
• Causes of basalioma
• Diagnosis of basalioma
• Methods of treatment of basalioma
• Surgical treatment of basalioma
• Basalioma prophylaxis
• Rehabilitation after surgery
• Questions and answers
• Doctors

Types of basalioma

Basalioma develops mainly in patients older than 50 years. Men and women get sick equally often. Tumor classification is based on the classic TNM staging system, where T (0-4) is the size of the neoplasm, N (0-3) is lymph node involvement, and M (0-1) is the presence of distant metastases.

Depending on the structure of the tumor, basalioma can be of the following types:

• Superficial. A pink spot appears on the skin, which begins to peel off. A dense roller forms around it.
• pigmented. Neoplasm on the skin becomes blue, purple or brown. Oncologists must differentiate this form of the disease with melanoma (the most malignant skin tumor).
• Tumor. A dense smooth knot forms on the skin. Over time, it ulcerates, forming a small depression covered with crusts.
• Scleroderma-like. The tumor slightly rises above the skin, has clear boundaries, rarely grows to large sizes.
• Fibroepithelial. The most favorable form of the disease. It is characterized by the formation of a small dense nodule that does not ulcerate and does not cause discomfort.

After verifying the type and stage of the neoplasm, the oncologist selects the best option for treating the disease.

Basalioma symptoms

Basalioma develops relatively slowly. Sometimes years pass from the moment of the appearance of the primary tumor to its extensive growth. However, this does not mean that you have to wait until the last moment.

A distinctive symptom of the disease is the presence of a dense nodule or spot 2-5 mm in size, which forms on the patient’s skin. Typical tumor locations are open areas exposed to ultraviolet radiation:

• face area;
• wings of the nose;
• scalp;
• neck and décolleté;
• breast;
• back.

In the early stages of development, the induration causes little or no discomfort to the patient. A person notes only the fact of his presence, and sometimes an aesthetic flaw, because. the neoplasm is located on open areas of the skin.

The tumor continues to grow gradually, surrounding itself with a roller of dense small nodules. The surface of the papule may ulcerate, forming a funnel-shaped crater, which then becomes covered with crusts. From this point on, the patient often begins to be disturbed by a visual defect in the tumor area, discomfort, pain during touching.

If you do not seek specialized help in time, the tumor continues to grow, gradually destroying the tissues and skin of the area where it grows. For example, a basalioma on the wings of the nose can damage the cartilage, worsening nasal breathing. The severity of the clinical picture depends on the stage of the disease and the characteristics of the particular case.

Causes of basalioma

The development of the disease is based on inadequate division and reproduction of cells in the basal layer of the skin. Such an imbalance occurs due to a violation of the mechanisms for the formation of protein components by epidermal cells.

The factors provoking the development of events according to this scenario are:

• excessive insolation (influence of sunlight) – people with fair skin are at risk;
• radiation;
• contact with carcinogenic substances – paints and varnishes, resins, arsenic, oil products;
• the constant influence of a traumatic agent – bbasalioma can occur in a place of constant pressure on the skin of the temples of glasses or bra straps;
• long-term use of drugs that depress the immune function (corticosteroids and cytostatics).

Another important risk factor is genetic predisposition. If someone in the family had an oncological pathology, it is recommended to come for preventive examinations to a dermatologist / oncologist for early detection of a possible problem.

Get advice

If you experience these symptoms, we recommend that you make an appointment with your doctor. Timely consultation will prevent negative consequences for your health.

To learn more about the disease, prices for treatment and sign up for a consultation with a specialist, you can call:

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1

Treatment is carried out in accordance with clinical recommendations

2

Comprehensive assessment of the nature of the disease and treatment prognosis

3

Modern diagnostic equipment and own laboratory

4

High level of service and balanced pricing policy

Diagnosis of basalioma

Basalioma is often detected by the patient himself or by a doctor during a preventive examination. Since in the early stages of the disease a person practically does not feel any discomfort, he may mistakenly take a tumor for a wart. However, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the neoplasm appears in adulthood and often has an atypical structure for warts.

When contacting an oncologist or dermatologist, the doctor takes an anamnesis, analyzes the patient’s complaints and visually evaluates the tumor. Next, the specialist examines the skin of the whole body to identify other possible foci.

In order to differentiate a pathological neoplasm, an oncologist uses:

• dermatoscopy – a method based on visual assessment of skin elements under 10-fold magnification;
• Biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosis. A small area of ​​the tumor is taken for examination under a microscope with an assessment of its histological structure.

Expert opinion

As an oncologist, I can say that basalioma is one of the most favorable variants of neoplastic skin lesions. The disease almost never metastasizes, and modern methods of treatment provide a complete cure for the patient in 90-95% of cases. However, do not let the situation take its course. It is recommended to seek specialized help even when the first signs of pathology appear. This will significantly reduce the risks and quickly eliminate the aesthetic defect on the skin.

Seryakov Alexander Pavlovich,
oncologist, hematologist, radiologist (radiation therapist) of the highest category, MD, professor

Methods of treatment of basalioma

The main treatment of the tumor is the removal of the pathological focus. Minimally invasive destructive methods are used, and in severe cases, surgical excision. To prevent recurrence, the use of chemotherapy drugs and radiation exposure is sometimes required.

Conservative therapy

Most often, several methods are used simultaneously for effective treatment of the oncological process. Combination therapy guarantees a more reliable result with a reduced risk of disease recurrence. Applicable:

• Radiation therapy – close-focus X-ray irradiation.
• Chemotherapy is rarely used. To date, the only approved and effective drug for the treatment of basalioma is vismodegib.

Surgical treatment of basalioma

Modern approaches to the treatment of patients with basalioma make it possible to achieve a complete cure in 90-95% of cases. The main methods for eliminating the tumor are:

• Cryodestruction – destruction of neoplasm tissues by low temperature. The tumor is frozen and thus removed. This technique is suitable mainly for superficial forms of basalioma.
• Laser destruction – removal occurs using local radiation. The procedure is characterized by low trauma, good cosmetic effect and fast rehabilitation.
• Curettage with electrocoagulation – first, the tumor is scraped with a curette within healthy tissues, and then its bed is cauterized.
• Surgical – a classic method using a scalpel. The tumor is excised within healthy tissues. The oncologist retreats 4-5 mm from the boundaries of the neoplasm. This is necessary to minimize the risk of recurrence of the disease.

Prevention of basalioma

There is no specific prophylaxis for basalioma. It is recommended to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, contact with carcinogens, and chronic skin injury. If you have relatives with oncological pathology, you should regularly undergo preventive examinations with a dermatologist or oncologist.

Rehabilitation after surgery

Surgical treatment of basal cell carcinoma is carried out using minimally invasive methods, which are referred to as “surgery of one day”. With small and medium-sized tumors, the procedure does not require hospitalization. After the radical removal of the neoplasm, the patient remains under the supervision of a doctor for several hours, then you can go home.

The full recovery period takes up to 2-3 weeks. At this time, it is recommended to limit heavy physical exertion, exclude trauma to the operated area and go to the sauna, bath. The prognosis for the vast majority of patients with basalioma is favorable.

Questions and answers

An oncologist deals with the treatment of basalioma. Diagnosis can also be carried out by a dermatologist.

No. The only approved chemotherapy for basalioma is vismodegib. However, the drug provides insufficient regression of the disease and is considered as an additional remedy after removal of the main focus. Therefore, surgery (minimally invasive or classical) remains the best option for treating a tumor.

No direct threat to life. Basalioma is one of the most favorable variants of neoplastic skin lesions. The disease almost never metastasizes and can be completely cured in 90-95% of cases without subsequent relapses.

Fedyaev I. M., Bairikov I. M., Belova L. P., Shuvalova T. V. Malignant tumors of the maxillofacial region. – M., Nizhny Novgorod: Medical Book, Publishing House of NGMD, 2000. – 160 p. – 5000 copies. — ISBN 5-86093-036-4.

Gantsev Sh.K. Oncology: Textbook for medical students. – M .: LLC “Medical Information Agency”, 2006. – 488 p. – 5000 copies. — ISBN 5-89481-418-9.

Oncology / V. I. Chissov, S. L. Daryalova. — M.: GEOTAR MEDICINE, 2007. — 560 p. – 3000 copies. — ISBN 978-5-9704-0454-6.

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Lymphoma
Tumors of the subcutaneous, connective and other soft tissues
anal cancer
Vaginal cancer
Cancer of the extrahepatic bile ducts
Cancer of the vulva
Stomach cancer
gallbladder cancer
bowel cancer
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Lungs’ cancer
Fallopian tube cancer
Mammary cancer
Cancer of the ureters
adrenal cancer
Parathyroid Cancer
Paget’s cancer
Liver cancer
Esophageal carcinoma
Pancreas cancer
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kidney cancer
prostate cancer
Cancer of the body of the uterus
colon cancer
urethral cancer
thyroid cancer
testicular cancer
ovarian cancer
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