Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma usually develops on skin that receives the most sun exposure such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, arms and hands. However, basal cell carcinoma can develop on any part of your body, including areas that do not regularly get sun exposure. Exposure to radiation, contact with arsenic, chronic inflammatory skin conditions, tanning bed exposure and complications of burns, scars, or even tattoos can also be contributing factors. Basal cell carcinoma is slow growing and rarely spreads to other parts to the body. Treatment is important because basal cell carcinoma continues to grow and can be disfiguring by destroying bone and skin tissue if left untreated.

Individuals who spend long hours in the sun are particularly susceptible and those with fair skin, blond or red hair and blue, gray or green eyes are at highest risk.

Signs of basal cell carcinoma include a sore spot that comes and goes but never totally heals, a shiny bump, an area that bleeds easily, a raised or depressed pink patch or a waxy white or yellowish scar like area.

Treatment options include topical chemotherapy medications, curettage and desiccation, excision and Mohs surgery. Early detection leads to a better outcome and smaller scar.

Your dermatologist will recommend a treatment based on the size, shape, location and subtype of your basal cell carcinoma.

Call Teton Dermatology at 307-734-1800 to schedule an appointment for evaluation to see if you need a biopsy to evaluate for a basal cell carcinoma.

Call Teton Dermatology at 307-734-1800 to schedule an appointment for evaluation to see if you need a biopsy to evaluate for a basal cell carcinoma.