Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma, also known as basal cell epithelial tumor, is a malignant tumor originating from basal cells. This disease is more common in elderly people and is more likely to occur in areas such as the head, face, neck, and back of the hand that have been exposed to sunlight for a long time. The course of the disease is usually slow, with a low metastasis rate, mostly belonging to low-grade malignant tumors, and the prognosis is generally good. The typical symptoms of basal cell carcinoma are non inflammatory pale yellow brown or light gray white, waxy nodules, hard in texture, and the epidermis generally does not rupture. As the condition progresses, some skin lesions may develop erosions, scabs, or bleeding in the central area, forming ulcers with raised edges and uneven surfaces. Some skin lesions will spread superficially to the surrounding skin, heal on their own and form scars, while others may form corrosive ulcers. Accompanying symptoms may include skin peeling and erosion, as well as pus and foul odor during infection.

Figure 1. Type of skin cancer.

Overview

The treatment methods for basal cell carcinoma include drug therapy, surgical treatment, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and traditional Chinese medicine treatment. Surgical treatment is a common method, and different surgical approaches are adopted according to the size of the tumor diameter. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are suitable for patients with specific conditions. Traditional Chinese medicine treatment can compensate for the shortcomings of other treatments, but it needs to be carried out under the guidance of a physician. The prognosis of basal cell carcinoma is related to tumor staging, local damage, and timely treatment. If the treatment is standardized and timely, the cure rate is higher. If not treated in a timely manner, it will develop into a late stage and be difficult to cure. Therefore, early detection and treatment are crucial for improving the cure rate. Meanwhile, postoperative care and rehabilitation are also crucial, including preventing infections, maintaining skin cleanliness, and supplementing vitamins.

Etiology

Basal cell carcinoma is a malignant tumor originating from basal cells, which is closely related to sunlight exposure. Long term exposure to sunlight on the skin of the head, face, neck, or back of the hand may lead to skin cell carcinogenesis.

• Underlying cause

The specific cause is unknown, but research has shown that its occurrence may be related to gene mutations or abnormal cell proliferation ability.

• Inducing factors

The most common triggering factor for basal cell carcinoma is exposure to ultraviolet radiation, which also includes ionizing radiation, arsenic exposure (through water, medication, or diet), immune suppression, organ transplantation, and so on. In addition, basal cell carcinoma may be related to scars, such as surgical scars and burn scars. Basal cell carcinoma is also associated with many hereditary cancer syndromes, such as Rombo syndrome and nevus like basal cell carcinoma syndrome.

Conclusions

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, mainly caused by chronic ultraviolet radiation. Although it usually has low risk and is rarely transmitted, if left untreated, it may cause serious local damage. Early detection through regular skin examinations and timely treatment with surgical resection or Mohs surgery can lead to a good prognosis. By developing sun protection habits and avoiding excessive UV exposure, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. Understanding the etiology, symptoms, and treatment options of BCC is crucial for promoting skin health and preventing long-term complications of this common disease.

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