Related articles: Basal-cell carcinoma (or basalioma)
Definition
Basal-cell carcinoma (or basilioma) is a skin tumor that derives from the neoplastic transformation of the basal cells (located in the deepest layer of the epidermis).
Basal-cell carcinoma is a malignant neoplasm that is not very aggressive, slow-growing, which rarely causes distant metastases. However, if left untreated, it can be extended superficially and infiltrated in depth, seriously damaging fabrics and compromising the functionality of nearby structures.
Basal-cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer in the white race. Chronic exposure to sunlight, especially during childhood and adolescence, is the main etiology. Subjects with fair complexions, blond or red hair, light eyes and freckles (skin type 1-2) have a higher risk of getting sick. Less common causes include exposure to inorganic arsenic and ionizing radiation.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Changes in the appearance of a mole
- Erythema
- macules
- Nodule
- papules
- plaques
- itch
- Telangiectasia
- Skin Ulcers
Further indications
Basal-cell carcinoma develops mainly in the area of the head and face (in particular on the nose and ears), followed by the trunk, arms and legs. There are numerous clinical forms.
The most widespread form, the superficial basal-cell carcinoma, begins as a stain tending to reddish. The basilioma can also occur in the form of a small papilla or pinkish nodule, translucent or pearly, with a smooth surface and well-defined margins. Sometimes papular and nodular lesions can cause itching and be pigmented in brown, blue or black. Over time, the lesion may appear to be surrounded or dominated by small congested and dilated vessels (telangiectasias) and may develop depression, crust or central ulceration on its surface. Recurrent bleeding is not an unusual symptom.
In other cases, the basal-cell carcinoma begins as a plaque with defined margins, of red color, difficult to distinguish from psoriasis or from a localized dermatitis.
The infiltrating form of basal-cell carcinoma (called sclerodermiforme), generally appears hard, whitish, similar to a scar-like plaque.
Basaliomas metastasize in a few cases, but they can invade surrounding healthy tissues. Rarely, this type of skin cancer is lethal. This may still occur when the carcinoma invades or infiltrates orifices or deep vital structures (such as eyes, ears, mouth, bone or meninges).
The diagnosis is made by biopsy and histological examination. It is important to contact your doctor if a small spontaneous wound often bleeds, forms a scab or stays open for more than three weeks (it never heals), or if you notice changes in a skin lesion in terms of size, shape, color or elevation.
Treatment of basal cell carcinoma depends on the characteristics of the tumor. Surgical removal is the most widely used method. In some cases, it is possible to resort to photodynamic therapy, topical chemotherapy (eg application of imiquimod) and radiotherapy.
Patients with a history of basal cell carcinoma have a higher risk of developing others within the first five years of primary tumor removal. It is therefore important to protect yourself from the sun and undergo periodic checks.
