Basal Cell Carcinoma

Effective Treatments for the Most Common Form of Skin Cancer in Bryn Mawr, Newtown Square, Philadelphia, and the Main Line

Basal cell carcinoma, a non-melanoma type of skin cancer, is the most common but least dangerous form of cancer of the skin, because it typically grows slowly. Statistics from the Skin Cancer Foundation show that four million cases are diagnosed each year in the United States alone. As with any other cancer of the skin, early detection is key, because it makes treatment easier and increases the likelihood of successfully curing basal cell carcinoma. Our Philadelphia-area physicians specialize in diagnosing and removing basal cell carcinoma along with other, related types of skin cancers on patients from Bryn Mawr, Newtown Square, Main Line, and all of Philadelphia.

If you would like to learn more about treatment options for basal cell carcinoma, contact the dermatologists at Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute. To schedule an appointment, Please BOOK ONLINE, call 610.525.5028, or Contact Us.

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What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma develops in the outermost layer of the skin, affecting the cells responsible for creating new skin cells at the base of the epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma is unlikely to be deadly, but can eventually cover a wide area of the skin, causing lasting damage and disfigurement. When left untreated, it can spread into surrounding bone and tissue, so it is important to have it diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma?

People with fairer skin have a higher risk of getting basal cell carcinoma. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is the main risk factor. Basal cell carcinoma usually results from many years of intense or extensive exposure to the sun or artificial sources of UV light, such as tanning beds. This radiation harms the DNA of skin cells, causing them to grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

Primary risk factors for basal cell carcinoma include:

  • long-term UV light exposure
  • very fair skin that freckles and burns easily
  • light hair and eyes
  • being an older adult
  • being a man
  • a family history of skin cancer
  • a weakened immune system
  • radiation treatment
  • exposure to some chemicals
  • severe or chronic skin injury or inflammation

What Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Look Like?

Basal cell carcinoma grows slowly and typically appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the head, neck, arms, legs, and torso. In some cases, however, it might occur in areas that aren’t normally exposed to sunlight.

Patients may notice a small, “pimple-like” lesion or scaly patch that doesn’t go away after several months or years, and progressively increases in size.

The appearance of these marks can vary depending on the person. You may notice:

  • a rounded flesh-colored or pink bump with blood vessels in it
  • pink, brown, pearly-white, or black coloring
  • shiny, scaly, hard, or waxy skin growths
  • crusty, fragile skin that bleeds easily
  • marks with a slightly raised appearance, rolled edges, and an indentation at the center

How Can You Prevent Basal Cell Carcinoma?

To reduce the chance of basal cell carcinoma, sun protection is most important. Try to avoid going out into the sun at the time of the day when the rays are most intense, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher throughout the year, wear protective clothing, and regularly check your skin all over so you can notice any changes.

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Meet Our Dermatologists &Certified Physician Assistants

Our board-certified dermatologists & PA-Cs are dedicated to detecting and treating skin cancers. We treat the full spectrum of skin diseases. Our Mohs and Plastic Surgery practices are integrated, and offer patients the most advanced skin cancer treatment, delivering superior outcomes.

Medical Treatment Options for Basal Cell Carcinoma

There are various treatments available from our Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute physicians. Our dermatologists will start by discussing your medical history, examining any suspicious lesions you have noticed and performing a total body skin cancer exam. If any lesion is suspicious for cancer, a skin biopsy will be done.

The most suitable treatment option for you depends on the size of the lesion, where it is located, and the potential risk for scarring.

The comprehensive treatments we provide include Mohs surgery, excisional surgery, electrodessication and curettage, cryosurgery, and prescription topical medications.

Other Skin Cancer Resources

Beyond basal cell carcinoma, the Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer team is also qualified and experienced in diagnosing and treating the more aggressive squamous cell carcinoma, as well as melanoma.

To identify and treat basal cell carcinoma near Newtown Square, Bryn Mawr, and Philadelphia, contact Bryn Mawr Skin & Cancer Institute. To schedule, Please BOOK ONLINE, call 610.525.5028, or Contact Us.

Book online