Basal Cell Carcinoma: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Basal cell carcinoma is a kind of skin cancer that often develops on sun-exposed body areas such the face, neck, arms, and hands. The cells in these areas grow uncontrollably, forming tumours or sores that can bleed and crust over.

Basal Cell Carcinoma is classified into the following types:

• Nodular Basal Cell Carcinoma: This type of BCC is the most common form of non-melanoma skin cancer, with a round or dome shape and a waxy, pearly appearance.
• Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma: This type of BCC is usually found on the face or neck, and appears as a flat lesion with raised edges that is scaly and dry in texture.
• Pigmented Basal Cell Carcinoma: This type of BCC is characterised by dark pigmentation, usually black or brown in appearance.
• Sclerosing Basal Cell Carcinoma: This type of BCC appears as a hard lump in the skin, often on the head or neck. Since it lacks BCC-specific characteristics, it might be challenging to identify.
• Infiltrative Basal Cell Carcinoma: This type of BCC tends to grow slowly, but can be aggressive and spread to other areas of the body if left untreated. It often has an irregular shape and may appear red or brown in colour.

Here are the most common causes of Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Sun exposure: Basal Cell Carcinoma is mostly brought on by prolonged sun exposure and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
• Exposure to other sources of radiation: Exposure to radiation can increase your risk for developing Basal Cell Carcinoma.
• Genetics: Basal cell carcinoma is more prone to occur in people with certain genetic diseases including xeroderma pigmentosum and basal cell nevus syndrome.
• Fair skin and a history of sunburns: Basal Cell Carcinoma is more likely to form in people with light skin, blue eyes, freckles, and a history of sunburns than in those with darker skin tones.
• Chronic immune suppression: People with weakened immune systems from medical treatments or diseases like HIV/AIDS may be more likely to develop Basal Cell Carcinoma.

The symptoms of basal cell carcinoma can vary, but here are some of the most common ones:

• A small, shiny, pearly, or waxy bump that may bleed after a minor injury or scrape and may have a central depression or ulceration.
• A pale, flat, or yellowish area that resembles a scar and has a raised border.
• A pink, somewhat raised growth that has a crusty depression in the centre and a rolling border.
• A red, scaly patch or plaque that may itch or form a shallow ulcer.
• A white, waxy, scar-like area without any visible blood vessels.
• a sore that either takes longer than a few weeks to cure or keeps healing before reopening.

By following the given advice you can prevent Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Wear sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day, even on cloudy days, and reapply every two hours.
• Limit sun exposure: Avoid being in the sun directly from 10 am to 4 pm, and dress in sun-protective clothes such as long sleeves and wide-brimmed hats.
• Avoid tanning beds: Basal cell carcinoma is one kind of skin cancer that is made more likely by tanning beds.
• Regularly check your skin: It's important to frequently examine your skin for any alterations or growths that can be skin cancer indications.

These tests can help you in the diagnosis of Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Visual Exam: A visual exam is the first step in diagnosing Basal Cell Carcinoma(BCC). The doctor will look for signs of cancer such as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat sore, a pink growth, or a red patch.
• Skin Biopsy: During a skin biopsy, the doctor takes a sample of the suspicious area and examines it under a microscope. They may use this information to assess if it is malignant.
• Imaging Studies: Imaging procedures such as X-rays, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging may be used to determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body (MRI).
• Blood Tests: Blood tests may be done to check for any changes in hormone levels or other markers that may indicate the presence of BCC.
• Gene Tests: To find out whether there are any gene mutations that might raise the chance of getting BCC, gene testing could be used.

The possible complications of Basal Cell Carcinoma are:

• Invasion of surrounding tissue: Basal Cell Carcinoma can grow and spread into the surrounding tissue, leading to further complications.
• Spread to other parts of the body: If left untreated, basal cell carcinoma may spread to other parts of the body via the lymphatic or circulatory systems.
• Scarring: Removal of Basal Cell Carcinoma can result in scarring and disfigurement.
• Recurrence: Basal Cell Carcinoma has a high rate of recurrence, even after successful treatment.

These are the Home remedies for Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Use turmeric paste: Turmeric is a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent, which can help reduce the size of the tumour. Apply a thick paste of turmeric powder with honey or olive oil on the affected area.
• Neem Leaves and Honey: Make a paste of neem leaves and honey and apply on the affected area for relief from Basal Cell Carcinoma.
• Aloe Vera: Because of its anti-inflammatory qualities, aloe vera may assist to lessen inflammation brought on by basal cell carcinoma. To relieve itchiness, burning, etc., apply fresh aloe vera gel directly to the afflicted region.
• Papaya Juice: Papaya juice helps in treating Basal Cell Carcinoma as it is rich in antioxidants that help fight cancer cells and stimulate the immune system to fight infection.

These are the food items which can be consumed by you to strengthen the healing procedure:

• Foods that contain antioxidants, such as blueberries, tomatoes, garlic, and green tea, may help reduce inflammation associated with Basal Cell Carcinoma.
• Salmon, mackerel, and tuna all include omega-3 fatty acids that may aid to lower inflammation and guard against malignant cells.
• Vitamin D-rich foods like oily fish, fortified milk products and cereal grains can help strengthen the body’s defences against Basal Cell Carcinoma.
• Almonds and hazelnuts, which contain vitamin E, may help to lessen the symptoms of BCC.
• Eating foods with selenium like Brazil nuts and whole grains may also be beneficial in preventing the development of Basal Cell Carcinoma.

These food items should be avoided to prevent Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Fried or processed foods: Fried and processed foods are high in saturated fat and trans fats, both of which have been linked to an increased risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma.
• Refined carbohydrates: White bread, white rice, and pasta are examples of refined carbohydrates that may boost blood sugar levels and induce inflammation in the body, which may increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma.
• Red meat: Eating large amounts of red meat may increase the risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma due to its high saturated fat content.
• Alcohol: A higher incidence of basal cell carcinoma has been associated with excessive alcohol use.
• Sugary drinks: Sugary drinks such as soda and energy drinks contain large amounts of sugar which can lead to inflammation in the body that may increase the risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma.

The following are the best treatments for Basal Cell Carcinoma:

• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy involves using high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours in patients with advanced stages of Basal Cell Carcinoma who cannot undergo surgery or have tumours that are too large for surgery alone to effectively remove them all at once.
• Cryosurgery: This involves freezing the tumour with liquid nitrogen to remove the cancerous cells.
• Mohs Surgery: By removing tiny sections of skin one at a time and dissecting each one under a microscope, only cancer-free tissue is left behind.
• Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): This uses a special light to activate a topical cream applied to the skin, killing off cancerous cells while minimising damage to healthy tissue.

Basal Cell Carcinoma is a type of skin cancer, so it is best to consult a dermatologist for treatment and diagnosis.

Dermatologists specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the skin, hair, and nails, so they are well-equipped to treat Basal Cell Carcinoma.

Several medications may be used to treat basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The top medicines for treating BCC include the following:

• Imiquimod: a cream that encourages the body's defence mechanisms to target cancer cells. It is often used to treat superficial Basal cell carcinoma.
• 5-fluorouracil (5-FU): A topical chemotherapy drug that kills cancer cells by disrupting their DNA. It is often used to treat superficial Basal cell carcinoma.
• Vismodegib and sonidegib: Oral medications that inhibit the Hedgehog signalling pathway, which is overactive in BCC cells. They are often used to treat advanced or metastatic Basal cell carcinoma.

Recovery time after treatment for Basal Cell Carcinoma can vary greatly depending on the size, location and type of treatment.

The time it takes for the treated region to fully recover might range from four to eight weeks.

The recovery of the skin's regular colour and texture might take up to six months after that.

No, basal cell carcinoma therapy outcomes are not irreversible.

Even after successful treatment, cancer can recur or spread to other areas.

To keep an eye out for any new growths or adjustments to pre-existing moles or lesions, regular exams and follow-up treatment are crucial.

Post-treatment guidelines are important to follow after a medical procedure or treatment in order to ensure a successful recovery. They may include:

• Following the doctor's instructions and recommendations carefully, such as taking prescribed medications and attending follow-up appointments.
• consuming a balanced diet and getting enough sleep to help recovery.
• avoiding activities like lifting heavy things or doing vigorous exercise that might aggravate an existing injury or strain.
• maintaining good hygiene by routinely washing your hands and avoiding contact with ill persons.
• Checking with your doctor before taking any non-prescription medications or supplements, as some may interfere with treatment or cause adverse reactions.

Generally, treatments can range from simple methods such as topical creams and ointments to more complicated procedures such as cryotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical removal.

Costs can also vary depending on the hospital or clinic where the treatment is being carried out.

Generally, costs for topical creams and ointments range from about ₹500 to ₹1500, while more complex procedures can cost up to ₹50,000 or more.

Side effects of Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatments can include:

• Pain, edema, and bleeding at the treatment location
• Infection and scarring
• Changes in skin colour or texture
• Hair loss or thinning near the treated area
• Fatigue and discomfort due to anaesthesia used during treatment
• Nausea or vomiting from radiation therapy
• Skin discolouration from topical treatments
• Eye irritation from topical treatments

See a local doctor if you are experiencing any Basal Cell Carcinoma problems since these may include 'metastasis, scarring, discomfort, etc.,' with treatment durations varying from a few months to years depending on the severity of the condition.