basal cell carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma can be treated in many ways, depending on the size, location, and pathologic features of the tumor. For small BCCs in low-risk areas such as the back, chest, arms and legs, the most common treatment is a surgical excision. In a surgical excision, the tumor is removed along with a healthy margin to ensure complete removal. For larger lesions or those in high-risk areas such as the face, neck, hands, feet and genitalia, a technique called Mohs surgery is utilized to ensure complete removal of the tumor. In this procedure, the tumor is removed and examined immediately under the microscope to detect cancer cells. Once the tumor is completely removed, then the area can be reconstructed. Other options for removal of some Basal Cell Carcinomas include electrodessication and curettage, in which the tumor is removed and cauterized, and radiation therapy, in which the area is radiated. For thin/superficial basal cells, a topical chemotherapy cream may be used to remove the tumor. For advanced or metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma, there are oral chemotherapy options available. 

Any consideration for the treatment of BCC of the skin should be undertaken with a board-certified dermatologist who can review all treatment options and provide a personalized treatment plan. 

No. Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinoma should be undertaken with a board-certified dermatologist, and in advanced cases, with a board-certified surgical oncologist, medical oncologist or radiation oncologist. Over the counter remedies are not recommended and in fact can be very dangerous, as they potentially can mask Basal Cell Carcinomas as they continue to grow deeper and wider.

Sometimes. Most Basal Cell Carcinomas are found early and can be easily treated with a simple procedure or in some cases just a topical medication. However, on high-risk parts of the body such as the head and neck, or when the tumor is larger, BCC can begin to spread quickly. First, Basal Cell Carcinoma can affect the nerves, which is termed perineural invasion. Then, it can further spread to regional lymph nodes which then carry the cancerous cells to other organs in the body, such as the lungs. When it has spread, it is termed metastatic Basal Cell Carcinoma and must be treated with advanced immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Although metastasis of Basal Cell Carcinoma is rare, it can lead to death if left untreated.  

Sometimes. There are certain rare genetic syndromes that increase the risk of developing Basal Cell Carcinoma.  

Varies. Treatment costs can vary based on insurance carrier and plans as well as their coverage policies. As a service to our patients, our office will complete a procedure estimate on your behalf; we will verify benefits to better understand any estimated out of pocket expenses in advance of scheduled procedures. 

Sometimes. If treated appropriately, it is not common for Basal Cell Carcinoma to return. However, if there are residual tumor cells after removal or failure to find the primary Basal Cell Carcinoma, the tumor can recur either in the same location or in a distant organ or lymph node. Because it can recur, individuals with BCC should have regular skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist to evaluate for recurrence, metastasis or new lesions. Patients who have had a Basal Cell Carcinoma in the past are also more likely to develop additional skin cancers in the future.  

Very few. The prognosis for Basal Cell Carcinoma is excellent IF treated promptly. With complete removal via excision, Mohs or other methods, BCC can be easily treated and should be expected not to recur. Lifelong skin surveillance is important for individuals with a history of Basal Cell Carcinoma and should be done with a board-certified dermatologist. 

Sometimes. If a Basal Cell Carcinoma is large, it can begin to bleed and be painful. If it has involved nerves, it can produce a painful sensation as well. 

No. Basal Cell Carcinoma will not go away on its own and must be treated. If left untreated, Basal Cell Carcinoma can spread in the skin and to the internal organs and potentially cause death or other medical issues. It is important to seek care for any lesion that is pearly, pink, bleeding or not healing. A skin evaluation and possible biopsy by a board-certified dermatologist, followed by complete removal, is recommended for Basal Cell Carcinoma.