Skin cancer can come in many shapes and sizes. The most common form of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma. Most people see these start to form when they spend lots of time in the sun or in a tanning bed. Most are treatable and don’t spread if caught in time. It is important to know the signs of basal cells and get routine skin checks to make sure your skin is healthy.
Location
Most growths start to show on the forehead, ears, nose and neck. They can appear shiny, scaly, red, or resemble an open sore. Even though they are commonly seen on the upper body parts, they can be anywhere.
Treatment
Treatment for this type of skin cancer includes surgery, topical medications or radiation therapy. The treatment depends on the severity of the cell and how quickly it is identified. Topical medications are used for newer, smaller cells and radiation or surgery is used for bigger cells. Some doctors may take a biopsy of the cell to determine if it is cancerous or not.
Prevention
Some preventions include limiting sun exposure, wearing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and visiting your dermatologist regularly. Even if all these precautions are taken, it can also be hereditary. The best thing is to monitor your skin and get checked at least once a year.
If you have additional questions about the skin conditions mentioned or have a concern regarding your current condition, contact our team today! Unsure if your insurance will cover your visit? Check out our insurance coverage page for a list of accepted insurance companies so you know beforehand if you’re covered.
