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Basal Cell Carcinoma

Karl T. Clebak, MD, MHA, FAAFP and Jana Wei Qiao, MD Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, originating from the basal cell layer of the skin appendages.

    • Rarely metastasizes but is locally invasi...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Exposure to risk factors, family history of skin cancer

  • History of a growing, ulcerating, or bleeding skin lesion often in a sun-exposed area

PHYSICAL EXAM

  • 80% on face and neck, 20% on t...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Low risk BCC: curettage and electrodesiccation, standard excision, radiation therapy

  • High risk BCC: standard excision, Mohs surgery, radiation therapy

MEDICATION

  • May be especial...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Seek shade, especially between 10 am and 4 pm.

  • Closer attention to prolonged duration around water, sand, and snow, which are UV-reflecting surfaces that can incre...

REFERENCES

1
Hogue L, Harvey VM. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and cutaneous melanoma in skin of color patients. Dermatol Clin. 2019;37(4):519–526.
2
Cameron MC, Lee E, Hibler BP, et al....

ADDITIONAL READING

Dzubow  L, Goldberg  LH, Lebwohl  M, et al. Basal Cell Carcinoma Prevention Guidelines . New York, NY: The Skin Cance...

CODES

ICD10

  • C44.711 Basal cell carcinoma of skin of unspecified lower limb, including hip

  • C44.51 Basal cell carcinoma of skin of trunk

  • C44.61 Basal cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulde...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • BCC is the most common cancer and skin malignancy, originating from the basal cell layer of the skin appendages.

  • Chronic sun exposure and fair skin type increase risk with 80% on face a...

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