Basal Cell Carcinoma (Skin Cancer)
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells, which are cells located at the bottom of the skin's outermost layer. BCCs usually appear as small, skin-colored to pink bumps or nodules that may be pearly or waxy in appearance. They can also look like open sores that don't heal, scaly patches, or raised, reddish patches.
Treatment options for BCC include:
- Surgical excision: removal of the cancerous tissue.
- Mohs surgery: a specialized surgical technique that removes the cancerous tissue in a small disk while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible followed by pathologic evaluation of 100% of the margins.
- Radiation therapy: using high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
- Topical medications for non-aggressive types: such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or imiquimod.
It's important to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment of BCC. Early detection and treatment of skin cancer can increase the chances of a successful outcome.
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