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Here is another slow growing skin cancer that should be caught early. It is called Basal Cell Carcinoma. This type of skin cancer accounts for approximately 90 percent of all skin cancers. The Basal Cell Carcinoma is highly treatable. This form of skin cancer starts in the basal (top) cell layer of the epidermis (skin) and grows very slowly. When they first appear the Basal cell carcinoma usually looks like a small, shiny bump or nodule on the skin. The usual place for these cancers to grow are similar to the Squamous Cell Carcinoma; mainly those areas exposed to the sun, such as the the head and neck, the arms, the hands, and face. This skin cancer usually occurs among persons with light-colored eyes, hair, and fair complexion.
One out of every three new cancers is a skin cancer, and the vast majority are these basal cell carcinoma. Until recently, those most often affected were older people, particularly men who had worked outdoors. The number of new cases has increased sharply each year in the last three decades; average age for the onset of the disease has steadily decreased.
What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma
According to the AMA the major cause
of basal cell carcinoma is "chronic exposure to sunlight." Rarely, however, basal cell tumors can develop on non-exposed areas. In a few reported cases, contact with the chemical "arsenic", exposure to radiation, and complications of burns, scars, vaccinations have resulted in basal cell cancer. There are many cases also where tattoos were contributing factors.
Warning Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
There are five warning signs of this type of skin cancer.-
If you have an open sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and remains open for three or more weeks. ATTENTION: If you have a persistent, non-healing sore contact your doctor. This is a very common sign of Basal Cell Carcinoma.
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Sometimes basal cell is a "reddish patch" on the chest, shoulders, arms, or legs. Sometimes this patch crusts; may itch or hurt, or show with no noticeable discomfort.
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Basal Cell can also be a shiny bump that is almost pearly or translucent, although most often a basal cell carcinoma may bepink, red, or white; they can also be tan, black, or brown in color. In some dark-haired people, they can be confused with a mole.
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Basal Cell can be a pink growth with a slightly elevated rolled border. They also may get a crusted indentation towards the center. As the Carcinoma slowly grows, tiny blood vessels may develop on the surface.
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They may also appear as a scar like area. They can be: white, yellow or waxy, and often have poorly defined borders. The skin itself may appear shiny and taut. Although this is a less frequent sign, it can indicate the presence of an aggressive basal cell tumor.
If you observe any of the warning signs or some other change in your skin, consult your physician immediately.
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