Basal Cell Carcinoma

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Basal Cell Carcinoma (pronunciation: BAY-suhl sell kar-si-NOH-muh) is a type of skin cancer that begins in the basal cells. Basal cells produce new skin cells as old ones die off. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and from tanning beds can lead to basal cell carcinoma.

Etymology

The term "Basal Cell Carcinoma" is derived from the type of cell where the cancer originates, the basal cell, and the term "carcinoma" which is a type of cancer that starts in cells that make up the skin or the tissue lining organs.

Symptoms

Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin, though it can take other forms. Basal cell carcinoma occurs most often on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun, such as your face and neck.

Related Terms

  • Dermatologist: A doctor who specializes in conditions involving the skin, hair, and nails.
  • Skin Biopsy: A procedure in which a sample of skin tissue is removed, processed, and examined under a microscope.
  • Mohs Micrographic Surgery: A precise surgical technique used to treat skin cancer.
  • Radiation: The use of high-energy particles or waves to destroy or damage cancer cells.
  • Topical Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to destroy cancer cells.

Prevention

Prevention of basal cell carcinoma involves reducing your risk of UV radiation exposure. This can be achieved by limiting your time in the sun, avoiding tanning beds, and using sunscreen.

Treatment

Treatment options for basal cell carcinoma include surgical procedures such as Excisional Surgery, Curettage and Electrodesiccation, and Mohs Micrographic Surgery. Other treatments include Radiation, Cryosurgery, and Topical Chemotherapy.

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski