Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that develops slowly.
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the size, depth and location of basal cell cancer. It will be removed using one of the following:
• Excision cuts the tumor and uses dots to attach the skin again.
• Curettage and shave electrodessication cancer and uses electricity to kill any remaining cancer cells.
• Surgery, including Mohs surgery, in which the skin is cut and immediately examined under a microscope to verify the presence of cancer. The process is repeated until the examined skin sample is free of cancer.
• Cryosurgery freezes and kills the cancer cells.
• radiation can be used if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or organs, or in cases of tumors that can not be treated surgically.
• The skin creams with medications imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil can be used to treat a superficial basal cell carcinoma.
Prevention
The best way to prevent skin cancer is to reduce exposure to the sun. Ultraviolet light is most intense at midday, so try to avoid sun exposure during these hours. Protect your skin by wearing hats, long-sleeved blouses, long skirts or pants.
Always use a sunscreen:
• Apply a good quality sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15.
• Try to use sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB.
• Apply protective, at least 30 minutes before going out and reapply often.
• Use protective in winter too.
Examine your skin regularly for suspicious changes or formations:
• Color
• Size
• Texture
• Appearance
Also note if a skin wound bleeds, itches, is red and swollen (inflamed) or painful.