Is basal cell carcinoma serious?

Basal skin cancer is generally less malignant, but if not treated in time, it may cause local tissue damage and even invade surrounding organs. Early diagnosis and treatment are the key to avoiding serious consequences. The main treatment methods include surgical excision, cryotherapy and radiotherapy. Understanding its causes and early symptoms can help to intervene early.

1 Causes of basal skin cancer:

Basal skin cancer is mainly caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet light, especially on unprotected skin. Genetic factors may also increase the risk of disease, for example, people with a family history of skin cancer are more likely to develop the disease. A suppressed immune system, repeated injuries to the skin, and exposure to chemicals such as arsenic may also be causes. Older people, those with fair skin, and those with sun spots or chronic skin diseases are at high risk.

Prevention Tips:

Avoid long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays, apply sunscreen and wear a sun hat when going out.

Quit smoking and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals to strengthen your immunity.

Check your skin regularly for changes or abnormalities.

2 Main symptoms of basal skin cancer:

Basal cell carcinoma usually presents as a localized abnormality on the skin, including:

A smooth, hairless area that looks like a scar and is usually white, yellow, or light pink;

Small clear or waxy bumps that may contain tiny blood vessels

Abnormal lesions include ulcers that do not heal for a long time, areas that bleed repeatedly, or areas that are crusted.

If you find the above symptoms, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to get a clear diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.

3 Treatment options for basal cell carcinoma:

Treatment is determined mainly by the size, location, and degree of invasion of the lesion:

Surgical resection: such as Mohs micrographic surgery, which is suitable for the face and other important parts and can minimize damage to normal tissue.

Cryotherapy: Suitable for small lesions, using liquid nitrogen to freeze cancer cells to death, but the wound needs careful care after the operation.

Localized radiation therapy: Radiation is used to destroy cancer cells when surgery is not possible.

Adjuvant therapy includes topical application of anticancer drugs such as 5-fluorouracil cream or photodynamic therapy, but the choice should be made after evaluation by a professional physician.

Basal skin cancer is not an incurable disease, but early identification, prevention and treatment are extremely important. If you find skin abnormalities or there is a risk of diagnosis, be sure to consult a professional as soon as possible to avoid further spread of cancer. In daily life, good sun protection and health management can also effectively reduce the risk of disease.