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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: 4008
Last updated: 3/15/2023 9:53 PM

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)

The great service, short waiting time, and the doctor was super helpful!

#12022-03-23

Everyone was cordial and very attentive. Will definitely come back.

#22022-03-21

The appearance and presentation of the office.

#32022-09-05

Dr made eye contact and listened to my concerns....

#42022-03-22

Dr. Ringpfeil appeared concerned about me.

#52022-09-19

Beautiful offfice. Doctor was thorough but quick, which was great

#62011-04-04 11:16:27

The friendliness of the doctor and staff

#72011-01-24 15:16:37

Minimal waiting time. So friendly and professional!!

#82012-10-01 11:08:39

I don't have insurance, and Dr.Ringpfeil carfully thought about my situation and prescripted with my budget. Very nice and explained each medication that I'm on. LOVE THIS PLACE! hope my face gets better fast..

#92010-11-10 08:24:10

Talking with the Physician

#102022-09-23

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

no recommendations necessary

#12023-03-17

any information on services provided for enhancing skin apperance

#22022-12-19

Service was excellent!

#32010-09-30 13:09:12

JUST THE WAY YOU SERVE ME NOW...........WITH GREAT RESPECT AND i REALLY APPRECIATE IT.

#42010-11-11 10:41:38

You often have a long wait time in the room for the doctor. When she does come in it is not for a very long time.

#52010-08-23 17:00:56

I have an unusual challenge getting to and from the office. Your practice is doing a great job; I will deal with the transportation issues.

#62011-03-21 10:03:43

keep up what your doing

#72010-09-23 14:03:13

Everything was outstanding

#82011-11-18 16:18:36

you cannot serve me any better than I was served today

#92022-04-07

keep doing what u doing keep up the good work!!!!

#102022-05-20

Customer Rating : 4.6

Based on 402 ratings
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