Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of cancer and skin cancer. More than 4 million cases are diagnosed annually in the United States, making it extremely widespread. Even though basal cell carcinoma is not as dangerous as other forms of skin cancer, it’s still important to diagnose and treat it correctly.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on basal cell carcinoma diagnosis and where you can go for the treatment of basal cell carcinoma in Coral Gables, FL.
1. A Full Skin Exam
Your Mohs surgeon can use both visual and tactile examinations to examine the area of concern for signs of basal cell carcinoma. During a skin examination, they will look for:
Changes in skin texture, color, and size
- Any raised or discolored areas that feel firm or lumpy
- Open sores that won’t heal
- Scars from prior growths
They will also ask questions about your symptoms, such as:
- How long have you noticed the area of concern?
- Does it hurt or itch?
- Have you ever been treated for skin cancer before?
- Does your family have a history of cancer?
Where Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Appear?
Basal cell carcinoma is most often found in areas exposed to the sun. That includes the face, neck, arms, and hands.
However, it can appear on other body parts that don’t get a lot of sun exposure.
Basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads. But the lesions can grow deep and wide and cause damage to surrounding tissues if left untreated.
2. Biopsy
What if your Mohs surgeon suspects that there is basal cell carcinoma? Then, they may decide to perform a biopsy.
During this procedure, a sample of the tissue in question will be taken. Then, it will be sent to a laboratory for examination.
The results of this biopsy can confirm or rule out basal cell carcinoma.
3. Imaging Tests
In some cases, your Mohs surgeon may recommend imaging tests. This can include MRI or CT scans.
Imaging tests are used to determine how deeply the basal cell carcinoma has spread and whether it has reached any other organs.
If basal cell carcinoma is confirmed, your Mohs surgeon will discuss the best treatment options with you.
Available Treatments After a Basal Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis
Your Mohs surgeon can help you choose the best treatment if you are diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma. Some of these treatments include:
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a procedure in which lesions are frozen with liquid nitrogen. This treatment destroys cancer cells.
It can be used for small lesions that have not spread beyond the skin’s surface.
Electrodesiccation and Curettage (ED&C)
During this procedure, the Mohs surgeon will use an electric current to burn off cancerous cells. They will then scrape away the treated area with a surgical instrument called a curette.
This treatment is often used for small lesions that have not spread beyond the skin’s surface.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be applied topically to treat basal cell carcinoma. This type of chemotherapy, called topical cream chemotherapy, destroys cancer cells on the skin’s surface.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy may sometimes be used to treat basal cell carcinoma. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to shrink and destroy cancer cells.
Surgical Excision
Excision is a surgical procedure in which your Mohs surgeon will remove the affected area of skin, including some surrounding tissue.
After the surgery, the area is usually sewn back together. This procedure may be recommended for larger lesions or if the cancer has spread deep into the tissue.
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is a highly specialized procedure for basal cell carcinoma. Your Mohs surgeon will carefully remove thin layers of tissue. Then, they will examine the samples under a microscope for cancer cells.
This procedure aims to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible while preserving healthy skin.
Mohs surgery also involves reconstructive surgery. Your Mohs surgeon will close the wound with stitches after removing all cancerous cells.
This is done to minimize scarring and optimize cosmetic results.
When to Visit a Mohs Surgeon
Notice any suspicious lesions on your skin? It is important to seek medical attention from a Mohs surgeon. It is best to get checked even if you are unsure if the lesion is cancerous.
Early diagnosis and treatment of basal cell carcinoma can help reduce the risk of it spreading and causing more serious complications.
At the end of the day, it is important that you get regular skin exams. In addition, visit your Mohs surgeon if you have any concerns about a suspicious lesion.
Early diagnosis is key in treating this condition successfully!
Accurate Diagnosis of Basal Cell Carcinoma in Coral Gables, FL
Need accurate basal cell carcinoma diagnosis in Florida? Look no further than the trusted Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center in Coral Gables. Dr. T.J. Giuffrida heads our expert team in serving patients like you. Dr. Giuffrida is one of the very few fellowship-trained, board-certified skin cancer surgeons who perform Mohs surgery.
To know more about our services or schedule a consultation, call us today at (305) 461-2000 or fill out our online appointment request form.
We look forward to helping you overcome basal cell carcinoma!
