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Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery

Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Basal Cell Cancer

Basal Cell Cancer - Overview

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common malignant skin tumor. It is a painless, slow-growing form of non-melanoma skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma initiates in the top layer of the skin called the epidermis. Increased risk of disease is associated with light-colored skin, blue or green eyes, blond or red hair, and over-exposure to UV rays, x-rays, or other forms of radiation.

Basal cell carcinoma almost never spreads inside the body. But, if left untreated, it may grow into surrounding areas and nearby tissues and bone. The majority of these cancers occur on areas of skin that are regularly exposed to sunlight or other ultraviolet radiation.

Diagnosis

Basal cell carcinoma can be only slightly different than normal skin. Cancer may appear as a bump or growth that is pearly or waxy, white or light pink, flesh-colored or brown. In some cases, the skin may be just slightly raised or even flat.

A new skin growth that bleeds easily or does not heal well may be the first sign of basal cell carcinoma. Diagnosis requires a complete medical history and evaluation of the affected area of skin (size, shape, color, and texture of any suspicious areas), and often includes biopsy for examination by a pathologist.

Management

Complete removal of basal cell cancer is the most important primary step. The rate of basal cell skin cancer locally returning is about 1-10% depending on the form of treatment. Untreated, basal cell cancer can spread to nearby tissues or structures, causing damage. This is most worrisome around the nose, eyes, and ears.

Basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other parts of the body. However, the occurrence of basal cancer can signal that you had sufficient exposure to radiation throughout your life, making it more likely to grow additional basal cell carcinomas. Monthly self-examination of your skin is a critical process to notice any suspicious skin changes. Meticulous follow-up with your doctor twice a year is highly recommended.

Treatment and Medication

A number of therapies exist for treating basal cell carcinoma. The most appropriate one depends on the type, location, and severity of the tumor. The most common basal cell carcinoma treatments are surgical excision including Mohs' surgery where necessary, electrodesiccation and curettage, freezing, laser surgery, and topical treatments such as Tazarotene (Tazorac), imiquimod (Aldara), and 5-fluorouracil. Prescription medications require careful supervision for severe skin irritation as well as systemic side effects.

Coping

Primary aspects of coping with basal cell carcinoma relate to restrictions to sun exposure (leisure time and outdoor work) as further sun exposure will increase your chance to form basal cell carcinoma elsewhere on your exposed skin. In addition, one must adjust to the change in skin from primary cancer as well as from the scar after removal of it.

Depending on the severity, an important psychological aspect may be the sense of illness (cancer). Emotional reactions include worry, fear, irritation, doubt, guilt, and anxiety. The ideal approach to the disease is to understand the causes and implement preventative behavioral measures.

Prevention

The optimal way to prevent most basal cell carcinomas is to reduce your exposure to natural or artificial sunlight. Protect your skin by wearing a hat, long-sleeved shirts, long skirts, or pants.

Always use sunscreen. Apply high-quality sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB light. Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside, and reapply it at least every 2 hours. Use sunscreen on exposed areas all year round.

How can we help you?

SKIN

# of surveys: 4187
Last updated: 1/02/2024 11:10 AM

PATIENT RATINGS

Would you recommend us?

definitely
93.1%
probably
6.16%
maybe
0.58%
not likely
0.08%
no
0.02%

Compare our service to other similar practices

excellent
87.9%
very good
10.1%
good
1.8%
poor
0.06%
very poor
0%

Overall doctor performance

excellent
94.2%
very good
4.89%
good
0.80%
poor
0.03%
very poor
0%

The doctor listened to you attentively

excellent
93.9%
very good
4.97%
good
1.05%
poor
0.05%
very poor
0%

The doctor took time to answer your questions

excellent
94.0%
very good
4.66%
good
1.27%
poor
0.02%
very poor
0%

The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
94.3%
very good
4.16%
good
1.25%
poor
0.14%
very poor
0.02%

The doctor explained treatment options

excellent
92.0%
very good
5.69%
good
2.18%
poor
0.11%
very poor
0.0%

Front desk performance

excellent
85.6%
very good
10.2%
good
3.66%
poor
0.31%
very poor
0.08%

Aesthetician performance

excellent
88.6%
very good
7.61%
good
3.39%
poor
0.24%
very poor
0.08%

Office comfort

excellent
90.9%
very good
6.93%
good
2.08%
poor
0.05%
very poor
0.05%

Parking

excellent
66.4%
very good
14.4%
good
15.7%
poor
2.49%
very poor
0.9%

Friendliness of the staff during appointment

excellent
90.9%
very good
7.23%
good
1.85%
poor
0.05%
very poor
0%

What WE DID WELL

(Answers:674)

Thorough body check.

#12011-12-20 11:18:43

Everyone was so pleasant,and nice.

#22024-01-26

I didn't feel rushed and felt like I was really listened to and taken seriously. I didn't feel like someone was just throwing ointments at me to get me out the door. I really appreciate the care I received here. Thank you.

#32024-01-11

This is my 2nd experience with this practice. I originally came here for my son. The attentiveness of the Doctor and staff is truely a positive experience. Thank you. I wish all my doctor's appts were this pleasureable.

#42023-08-17

Did not have to wait at all. Other places I would wait 4 hours or more.

#52010-11-10 08:57:14

The waiting room was very pretty

#62024-04-19

The medical assistant was very friendly and sat with me through the registration process to ensure my computer worked properly. The clinican was very patient and provided excellent care.

#72011-05-25 13:14:40

Everybody was polite and understanding. I will definetly be coming back.

#82011-05-24 14:13:45

very warm friendly staff

#92023-10-29

every one was extremely friendly and helpful, loved the doctor

#102023-07-26

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

can't think of anything

#12011-12-12 10:13:47

With such excellent service, there's nothing I can add to it. I am a very satisfied patient.

#22010-09-09 11:12:17

Medical newsletters or updates are helpful and informative. If it is advisable to have an annual mole check, for example, friendly reminders are always appreciated.

#32023-06-27

No room for improvement. You have a first-rate, exceptional staff Dr. Ringpfeil! Everyone especially Linda Heckman is so professional. Jessie makes a great first impression and is an asset to your team!

#42010-12-15 19:35:32

THANK YOU!

#52024-01-19

Medical newsletters or updates are helpful and informative. If it is advisable to have an annual mole check, for example, friendly reminders are always appreciated.

#62024-02-08

Improve the movement of the mouse on its pad.

#72023-07-01

Everything was great!

#82024-03-15

Cannot think of anyway to improve things, unless you want to serve hot tea and cappachino!

#92011-02-22 11:25:39

Try to get enrolled as a provider in Tricare Prime!

#102023-12-11

Customer Rating : 4.6

Based on 537 ratings
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