What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Snyder Dermatology, directed by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Renee Snyder, treats various forms of skin cancer in patients in Austin, Downtown Austin, and West Lake Hills, TX. Using advanced diagnostic tools, many skin cancers are curable when caught early. One skin cancer that affects millions of men and women each year is basal cell carcinoma (BCC). BCC generally occurs after exposure to UV light from outdoor sunlight or tanning beds, which causes basal cells in the epidermis to mutate and form this very common type of skin cancer.
BCC can initially present as a growth that fails to go away or heal. It is a slow-growing cancer, but it can destructively grow wide and deep with time. For this reason, catching it early allows our doctors here at Snyder Dermatology to treat it effectively. If you have any suspicious lesions or growths on your skin, we invite you to call our office for a full-body skin check.
What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Skin cancer can affect anyone, but it is especially prevalent in those who have spent years in the sun getting sunburns and/or tanning. Anyone and any area of the skin can be at risk, but those with blonde or red hair, fair skin, and blue/green eyes who are in the sun regularly tend to have more issues. You may also be more susceptible to basal cell carcinoma if you have the following:
- Lesions or open sores that will not heal
- A genetic predisposition that aids in skin cancer growth
- A suppressed immune system
- Skin on the shoulders or back area, as well as the scalp, face, ears, and neck, that are regularly exposed to the sun without protection or have had multiple or severe sunburns
- A current skin complication from injury, radiation, excessive scarring, and more
Symptoms of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinomas present as new, growing, sometimes painful, or bleeding plaques or bumps that can be pink, red, skin-colored, brown, or white in color. They often have a pearly/shiny appearance. BCC is commonly found on sun-exposed areas such as the scalp, face, neck, and top of the hands but has the potential to develop anywhere in your body.
When a skin growth does not heal or continues to grow, it is a sign of a more serious condition. While BCC is typically curable, the lesions still need to be removed from the skin as soon as possible for the best prognosis. BCCs grow slowly with time. The larger they grow, the more significant the disfigurement. BCCs grow deep, and they can ultimately cause nerve and muscle damage as well.
CONTACT US
Have questions or want to schedule an appointment? Contact us today to speak with a member of the Snyder Dermatology team. We’re here to address your concerns with compassionate and effective care.
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Love going to Snyder Dermatology. They listen to you and empathize. Give great advice and let you sample medication before buying it to see if it works. The staff is friendly and the facility is clean.
-Jamie S.
Everyone here was so helpful and kind. I haven’t had many Dermatologists who took my case seriously and they were so professional and thorough. I would definitely recommend this office to anyone!
-Brian C.
Dr. Renee is great. She was very informative and addressed all my concerns with straightforward info and solutions all while respecting my conservative attitude about cosmetic procedures. I was very pleased with my visit and my end result!
-Bonnie S.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
MEET OUR DOCTORS
Snyder Dermatology is the premier practice for medical and cosmetic dermatology in Austin, TX. Centrally located, our dynamic team of board certified dermatologists focus on providing patients with the most advanced medical care and treatment options. Our practice is distinguished by our compassion, our desire to fully understand our patients’ needs, and our commitment to being good stewards in the communities where we live and work.
How to Treat Basal Cell Carcinoma
After confirming the diagnosis of BCC with a skin biopsy, your doctor will discuss the appropriate treatment options for your condition. Treatment for basal cell carcinoma is based on many factors, including the location, size, and any special microscopic features. Treatment options may include in-office excision, electrodesiccation, curettage, cryotherapy, or topical chemotherapeutic medication.
Your care is very important to us at Snyder Dermatology. We will talk about your procedure choices in depth at your treatment planning appointment.
Schedule a Consultation
We want to set you up for success at Snyder Dermatology. When you face a skin cancer diagnosis, you need a team of medical professionals who are dedicated to your well-being and have the knowledge and experience to treat your condition effectively for long-term health. Dr. Snyder and our other providers are compassionate and trained to treat skin cancers of various types. If you are concerned about your skin, we invite you to call our Austin, TX, office to schedule your appointment today.