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Basal cell carcinoma can be described as a kind of skin cancer, which begins in the basal cells (the cells in the skin that produce new skin cells as the old ones die). This affliction usually appears in the form of a waxy bump. Basal cell skin cancer mainly affects those parts of the skin that are exposed to the sun regularly, like the skin on the face and the neck.

Causes

This condition occurs when there is a mutation in the DNA of the skin's basal cells. These cells are found at the bottom of the epidermis, which is the outermost skin layer. Because of the mutation in their DNA, basal cells start multiplying rapidly and continue to grow, instead of dying naturally. The accumulation of abnormal cells on the skin leads to the formation of a tumor, which is often cancerous.

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation is believed to be one of the most common causes of basal cell skin cancer. Some of the factors that could lead to basal skin cancer include-

• Excessive exposure to the harsh rays of the sun
• Regular use of commercial tanning lamps and beds
• Prolonged contact with toxic substances
• Health conditions that weaken the immune system

Symptoms

In most cases, the symptoms of this condition appear on those areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, like the face and the neck. Those who are bald or have thin hair may also suffer from basal cell skin cancer on the scalp, especially if they often venture out in the hot sun, without protective head gear. However, many people also develop this condition on the trunk, hands or the legs or other body parts that are not usually exposed to the sun.

Some of the signs and symptoms of basal cell skin cancer include-

• Sores that do not heal, bleed repeatedly and scab over
• Pearly white or waxy bumps that could bleed, form a skin depression or crust over
• Scaly, flat, fleshy-colored or brown patches
• Waxy scar that is white in color (rare cases)

It is important to visit a physician or a dermatologist, as soon the basal cell skin cancer symptoms become evident.

Treatment

There are various treatment options available for patients who are suffering from basal cell skin cancer. In case the cancer has reached a deeper level of the skin, doctors may recommend basal cell skin cancer removal through procedures like-

• Electro-Desiccation and Curettage (ED&C)
• Surgical Excision
• Mohs Surgery

If the cancer is fairly superficial, the doctor may suggest Cryosurgery, where the cancer cells are killed off by freezing them with liquid nitrogen.

Topical creams and ointments are also usually prescribed for basal cell skin cancer that has not extended to the deeper layers of the skin.

References

• Basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers. Fort Washington, Pa.: National Comprehensive Cancer Network. http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/nmsc.pdf. Accessed Jan. 14, 2011
• Basal cell carcinoma. American Academy of Dermatology. http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/sun_basal.html. Accessed Jan. 19, 2011
• What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers? American Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/SkinCancer-BasalandSquamousCell/DetailedGuide/skin-cancer-basal-and-squamous-cell-what-is-basal-and-squamous-cell. Accessed Jan. 19, 2011

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