Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that typically develops in areas most exposed to the sun, being the most common neoplasm. It starts in the basal cells, responsible for the renewal of skin cells. It usually appears as a bump and occurs most frequently in sun-exposed areas such as the head and neck.

The majority of basal cell carcinomas are due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. This can cause mutations in the DNA of these cells, turning them into cancerous cells.

Basal cell carcinomas have a significant hereditary component, so individuals with a family history or who have already suffered from this type of cancer are more predisposed to developing it.

Among the non-genetic risk factors that can help its development are:

• Exposure to UV radiation. Most basal cell carcinomas are caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun, tanning lamps, and commercial tanning beds. Severe sunburns also increase their risk.
• The use of this methodology to treat other conditions can predispose the area to this type of cancer.
• Fair skin. The risk is higher among people with fair skin, freckles, or who burn easily.
• Most develop in people over the age of 45 as basal cell carcinoma sometimes takes decades to develop.
• Immunosuppressive medications.
• Exposure to arsenic.
• Hereditary syndromes such as xeroderma pigmentosum or Gorlin-Goltz syndrome.

It generally manifests in the parts of the body most exposed to the sun, especially on the face and neck. It appears as a skin lesion that typically has one of these characteristics:

• A shiny, skin-colored bump.
• A brown, black, or bluish lesion.
• A flat, scaly patch.
• A whitish lesion, with a waxy appearance and similar to a scar without defined edges.

The most important causative factor is UV radiation which is absorbed by skin cells causing DNA mutations.

To reduce the risk of basal cell carcinoma, the following measures are recommended:

• Reduce exposure to sunlight, especially in the middle of the day. Always use sunscreen, long-sleeved clothing, long pants and hats. Ultraviolet light is more intense at higher altitudes and special care should also be taken when practicing winter sports such as skiing.
• Avoid self-tanning beds.
• High-risk persons should self-examine once a month. In addition, it is recommended that they visit a dermatologist regularly for examinations and early detection of precancerous lesions.

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