As we get older a new “bump” is not an uncommon experience. However, not all bumps are just “bumps,” but can possibly be a sign of something more significant including skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common of skin cancers and although not typically life threatening, these skin cancers can be very destructive locally and require extensive surgical treatment if not attended to promptly.

Basal cell carcinoma can take on many appearances, but typically appears as a shiny, translucent, “bump” on a sun-exposed region of skin. Over time, the” bump” may become larger and at times may ulcerate and bleed.  Many basal cell carcinomas are described by patients as “sores that won’t completely heal.”

Basal cell carcinoma typically occurs in the older population, but can be seen at younger ages. These younger individuals usually are fair skinned with a history of receiving significant amounts of ultraviolet light from either the sun or tanning booths.

The treatment of basal cell carcinoma may vary depending on its location, size, the overall health of the patient, and various findings seen by the pathologist who examines the cancer under a microscope.  Surgical removal is the most common treatment and typically is performed on an out-patient basis. 

 We all get a new “bump” or two as we get older and when we do it is probably best to have those “bumps” evaluated by a health care provider just to make sure that they are simply “bumps” on the highway we call life.

If you would like someone to look at a bump you find to be suspicious, please call Dr. Burns or one of the other doctors in our Frisco Dermatologist Directory

Dermatology Consultants of Frisco can be reached at 972-335-2727 or on the web at http://www.mydermconsult.com

John Burns PA-C