Basal Cell Carcinoma in New York, NY
Basal Cell Carcinoma in New York, NY
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is a common form of skin cancer typically arising from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This condition manifests as abnormal growths or lesions on the skin, primarily affecting areas that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, neck, and arms. BCC often appears as open sores, red patches, shiny bumps, or scars, and while it is generally slow-growing, it can cause significant damage if left untreated. Usually, the cancer does not spread to other parts of the body, but it can invade the surrounding tissues, causing disfigurement. Effective treatment options for Basal Cell Carcinoma include surgical excision, freezing, laser surgery, cryosurgery, Mohs surgery, and electrodesiccation and curettage, each tailored to the carcinoma’s size, depth, and location.
Causes and Variations of Basal Cell Carcinoma
The primary cause ofthe condition known as Basal Cell Carcinoma is long-term exposure to UV radiation, which damages the DNA in the skin cells, leading to abnormal cell growth. This type of skin cancer is more likely to occur in individuals with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or those who frequently use tanning beds. There are several variations of Basal Cell Carcinoma, including nodular BCC, which appears as a small, shiny bump; superficial BCC, which presents as red, scaly patches; and morphea form BCC, which can resemble a scar and may be more challenging to detect. Each variation requires careful diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
What Are The Different Procedures for Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Surgical Excision
Surgical excision is a common treatment for Basal Cell Carcinoma. In this procedure, the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue are removed. This procedure is often performed under local anesthesia in a dermatologist’s office and effectively removes the cancerous cells. The excised tissue is typically sent to a laboratory for further analysis to ensure that all cancer cells have been removed.
Freezing (Cryotherapy)
Freezing, also known as cryotherapy, involves the application of liquid nitrogen to the carcinoma, freezing and destroying the abnormal cells. This procedure is often used for small or superficial BCCs. The treated area may blister and scab as it heals, with the skin typically returning to normal within a few weeks.
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery for Basal Cell Carcinoma uses focused light beams to remove the cancerous tissue. This method benefits BCCs located in sensitive areas or patients who may not be candidates for traditional surgery. Laser surgery minimizes bleeding and scarring, offering a precise and less invasive option.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery is a technique where extreme cold is used to destroy cancerous cells. Like freezing, cryosurgery is effective for treating superficial BCCs and is performed using a probe that delivers liquid nitrogen directly to the affected area. Recovery is generally quick, with minimal scarring.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is an exact technique that removes the carcinoma layer by layer, allowing the surgeon to examine each layer under a microscope until no cancerous cells remain. This method removes all cancer cells while sparing as much healthy tissue as possible, making it ideal for BCCs in cosmetically sensitive areas.
Electrodesiccation and Curettage (ED&C)
Electrodesiccation and Curettage (ED&C) is a treatment that involves scraping away the BCC with a curette, followed by the application of an electric needle to destroy any remaining cancer cells. This procedure is effective for small, less aggressive BCCs and is often performed in a dermatologist’s office with local anesthesia.
What Are the Results of Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma effectively removes the cancerous cells, preventing further growth and potential disfigurement. Most patients experience minimal scarring, especially with advanced techniques like Mohs or laser surgery. Early treatment is critical to achieving the best outcomes and reducing the risk of recurrence. If you are concerned about a cancer mole or need a skin cancer check, contact Park Plaza Dermatology in New York, NY, to schedule an appointment with us and discuss the best treatment options.
Benefits of Treating Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Prevents the spread of cancer cells to surrounding tissues.
- Minimizes the risk of disfigurement.
- Reduces the likelihood of cancer recurrence.
- Promotes early detection and treatment of skin cancer.
- Enhances overall skin health.
- Provides peace of mind through professional care.
- Preserve healthy tissue with precise treatment options.
- Minimizes scarring with advanced surgical techniques.
- Offers a range of treatments suitable for various patient needs.
- Ensures a thorough approach with expert follow-up care.
Frequently Asked Questions
The symptoms of basal cell carcinoma are often shiny bumps, red patches, or open sores that don’t heal. Regular skin cancer checks are essential to identify skin cancer early, especially if you notice any new or changing lesions.
Although the skin condition Basal Cell Carcinoma rarely spreads to other body parts, it can cause a relatively high level of damage locally if untreated. For complications to be prevented, it is imperative to detect them early and treat them accordingly.
DNA damage can occur in skin cells when prolonged exposure to UV radiation, such as from sunlight and tanning beds, causes DNA damage.
The most effective treatment depends on the carcinoma’s size, location, and depth. Mohs surgery is often considered by professionals as the gold standard for ensuring complete removal while preserving healthy tissue.
While treatment is typically very effective, there is always a risk of recurrence. Having regular follow-up appointments is essential if you want to detect any signs of recurrence.
You should see a dermatologist if you notice any persistent skin lesions, changes in existing moles, or have a history of significant sun exposure. Early consultation can help identify and treat skin cancer before it becomes more severe.
