BCC Skin Cancer

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma, or BCC, is the most common type of skin cancer and usually occurs on skin that has been exposed to the sun. BCC is known for forming raised, smooth bumps on the skin. However, it can also appear as scarring that is yellow or white in color. While this type of skin cancer can move to nearby tissues and bone, it cannot spread throughout the body.

When found early, BCC can usually be treated and cured, but starting treatment as soon as the cancer is detected is vital. As more time passes, the tumor(s) can grow and become more aggressive, making treatment more difficult. That said, BCC is known to grow slowly, so there is time to consider treatment options. First, a dermatologist will have to make sure the problem is BCC and not some other skin condition.

Symptoms of Basal Cell Carcinoma

BCC can appear in a few different ways. Your BHSkin dermatologist will look for any of the following symptoms:

Skin growths that look like dome-shaped blisters or pimples and have blood vessels inside. They may appear pink, brown or black.
Small, almost transparent bumps, that won’t go away. They may appear dark, pink or red with patches or scales.
A waxy, hard skin growth that is similar to scar tissue. It’s usually white or yellow in color.
All of the above symptoms will be fragile and bleed easily.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options

BCC skin cancer treatments have a high success rate, especially when caught early. In fact, basal cell carcinoma is the easiest skin cancer to cure. When diagnosed, patients and doctors have a few options to consider. Here are some of the BCC treatment options we offer in LA:

#1 Mohs Surgery

Mohs surgery is a very meticulous surgery performed by specially trained dermatologic surgeons. It is considered one of the most effective methods for treating basal cell carcinoma. For this procedure, cancer cells are removed from the skin layer by layer. Each piece is examined closely until there are no more cancer cells left. This method removes the entire growth but doesn’t take away any more healthy skin than is necessary. If you’re looking for Mohs surgery in the LA area, we have clinics in Glendale and Encino.

#2 Curettage and Electrodesiccation

Curettage and electrodesiccation, or C&E, is a good option for small basal cell carcinoma treatments so long as the cancer is less likely to return. C&E requires two steps. Curettage removes the surface of cancer with a scraping tool, while electrodesiccation sears cancer away with an electric needle.

#3 Fluorouracil and Imiquimod Topical Creams

Topical agents, like Fluorouracil and Imiquimod, are also treatment options for BCC skin cancer. Fluorouracil inhibits DNA synthesis, slowing or stopping the progression of cancer cells. Imiquimod, on the other hand, activates cytotoxic T cells that destroy virus-infected cells and tumors. This basal cell carcinoma treatment option is good for small tumors in low-risk locations.

#4 Other Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options

Other BCC skin cancer treatment options include:

Radiation therapy
Chemotherapy
Freezing cancer cells in liquid nitrogen
Photodynamic therapy
Targeted drug therapy

What to Expect Before, During and After Treatment

You can expect a few office visits and tests before the official treatment. We want to ensure we’ve chosen the right option for your particular case. All of the treatments carry different challenges and no two people experience many of these treatments the same. Emotional and mental support during this time can help alleviate much of the stress.

Depending on what kind of treatment you’ve undergone, the aftermath will also be a bit different. There will be follow-up appointments to ensure the cancer isn’t returning. Your dermatologist will stress that you take care of your skin after treatment is finished. Those who’ve had skin cancer before have an increased chance of getting it again. Wearing softer clothing, applying sunscreen, and carrying hats or parasols to protect the skin even on cloudy days will be important first steps.

Locations

Location map of the following address: 1505 Wilson Terrace.

1505 Wilson Terrace
Suite 240
Glendale, CA 91206

Don Mehrabi MD in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Encino Tarzana, and Glendale. Same/Next Day / Saturday appt.

Glendale dermatology location details

Location map of the following address: 16030 Ventura Blvd.

16030 Ventura Blvd.
Suite 140
Encino, CA 91436

Don Mehrabi MD in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Encino Tarzana, and Glendale. Same/Next Day / Saturday appt.

Encino dermatology location details

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