Basal Cell Carcinoma in Sarasota

Basal cell carcinoma is incredibly common and, in fact, is the most common kind of cancer in existence. It’s slow-moving and rarely spreads — and when detected early, it’s very treatable.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding basal cell carcinoma in Sarasota or surrounding areas, please schedule a consultation.

Understanding Basal Cell Carcinoma

As its name suggests, basal cell carcinoma begins in the basal cells (a type of cell found in the uppermost layer of the skin). This type of cancer develops when basal cells become abnormal and uncontrolled due to DNA damage from exposure to UV radiation — both from the sun and tanning beds.

woman smiling with her hands under her chin

Who is More Likely to Develop Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Those in their 50s-60s or older
Fair-skinned individuals
Younger individuals who tan excessively
People with a history of skin cancer
Those with chronic infections and skin inflammation
Those who have had excessive sun exposure over the years

How Dangerous is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

This type of cancer tends to be very curable, but that doesn’t mean you should take it lightly. It can lead to disfigurement and complications if left untreated.

Although basal cell carcinoma barely ever reaches beyond the original tumor, that tumor can grow deep into the skin, destroying tissue and bone. In addition, the longer it is left untreated, the higher the chance of recurrence.

It’s also wise to be aware that there have been some rare, yet very aggressive, cases of basal cell carcinoma.

How to Identify Basal Cell Carcinoma

The appearance of basal cell carcinomas often varies widely from person to person. The only way to truly know if your lesion is cancerous is to visit a dermatologist.

Basal cell carcinomas may present as pimple-like sores that won’t heal. These may form a scab or crust, bleed, ooze, or become larger.

However, basal cell carcinomas can also present as shiny bumps/nodules, scar-like areas, open sores, reddish patches, pigmentation, or growths with raised edges.

If you find an abnormal lesion, it’s best to be safe and have it checked. Don’t ignore it.

Best Practices for Basal Cell Carcinoma

If you’re vigilant with early detection of basal cell carcinoma and have your lesion treated immediately, it can nearly always be removed without complications. Here are best practices:

Perform self-exams on your skin every month, remembering that basal cell carcinoma can develop anywhere on the body
Regularly see a dermatologist for professional skin checks
Always wear the correct sunscreen for your specific skin and be aggressive with re-application
Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors
Don’t use tanning beds or tanning lamps

Treatment Options forBasal Cell Carcinoma

If you develop basal cell carcinoma, there are several treatment options. The most common include:

Mohs surgery
Excisional surgery
Curettage and electrodesiccation
Topical chemotherapy and immune response modifiers
Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
Radiation therapy

Greco Dermatology: Your Diagnosis Center in Sarasota

We understand that frustration, anxiety, and fear can accompany many dermatologic diagnoses — most notably, skin cancer. This impacts many aspects of daily life, and we understand that. Our approach not only to skin cancer, but to all conditions we treat, addresses the external, internal, and environmental struggles that all play a part in the process. We recognize the burden that skin cancer or worrisome lesions carry with them, and we’re here to partner with you during the entire process of evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment. You can allow us to tackle that burden alongside you so that you will never feel alone in the process. We take great pride in our work, the professional relationship we develop with patients, and the overall experience during a visit to our office. Founded by Joseph F. Greco, M.D., Greco Dermatology is a skin cancer and lesion center in Sarasota specializing in the surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancer and suspicious lesions. We treat you with respect, compassion, and individualized care.