Basal Cell Carcinoma
in Indiana, PA
What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers?
Basal and squamous cell skin cancers are the most common types of skin cancer. Both start in the top layer of your skin (the epidermis). These cancers are usually found in areas exposed to the sun—such as your head, face, neck, and arms—but can occur anywhere on the body.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with basal or squamous cell skin cancer, you are not alone. Every year, approximately 3.3 million Americans receive this diagnosis. While hearing the word “cancer” can be frightening, it’s important to know that these types are very treatable, especially when detected early. Your healthcare provider can guide you through the best treatment options to ensure the best possible outcome.
REQUEST NOWWhat’s the difference between basal and squamous cell carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma, which forms in the lower part of the epidermis (the basal cell layer), accounts for more than 90 percent of all skin cancers in the United States.
As basal cells move up in the epidermis, they flatten, eventually becoming squamous cells. When squamous cells in the upper (or outer) part of the epidermis grow out of control, they can develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
It is very rare for basal cell carcinoma to spread, but it must be removed completely or it could return in the same location. Squamous cell carcinoma can also be removed completely, although it’s more likely to grow into deeper layers of the skin and spread to other parts of the body.
What are the risk factors for basal and squamous cell carcinoma?
Men are more likely than women to get basal or squamous cell skin cancer. Skin cancer risk also rises as you age.
Other risk factors include:
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- Ultraviolet (UV) light exposure from sunlight or indoor tanning beds
- Light-colored skin
- Previous skin cancer
- Long-term or severe skin injury, such as scarring, burns, or damage caused by an inflammatory skin disease
- Exposure to chemicals like arsenic, coal tar, paraffin, and certain types of petroleum products
- Radiation exposure, such as radiation treatment for cancer patients
Weakened immune system
Is early detection of skin cancer possible?
Knowing your own skin is key to finding skin cancer early. These skin cancers often develop slowly and start as changes in the skin that are visible to the eye. Learn the patterns of your moles, freckles, and other blemishes so you’ll notice any changes. The warning signs for basal and squamous cell carcinoma include any new growths or changes in size, color, or shape over time. If you notice any concerning changes, it is best to have them evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible.
In addition to regular self-examinations, annual skin checks with a dermatologist can help catch these cancers early, when they are easiest to treat.
What are the symptoms of basal and squamous cell carcinoma?
Both basal and squamous cell skin cancers can develop as firm, flat areas that show only slight changes from normal skin. However, most basal cell carcinomas appear as:
- Raised red patches that may be itchy
- Small, shiny pink or red bumps (some also have blue, brown, or black areas)
- Pink growths with raised edges and a low indentation in the center
- Open sores that don’t heal or keep returning
Squamous cell carcinomas can also appear as:
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- Rough or scaly red patches that may crust or bleed
- Wart-like growths
Again, it is essential to have a dermatologist check any new or changing skin growths, sores that don’t heal, and other areas that concern you.
How are skin cancers diagnosed?
Your board-certified Forefront dermatologist will carefully examine your skin from head to toe, including your scalp and the soles of your feet. Along with the visual exam, we may use a technique called dermoscopy to see the spots on your skin more clearly.
If we find a suspicious area that could be cancerous, our next step is a basal and squamous cell biopsy. This involves taking a sample from the area (or removing the growth entirely) and reviewing it under a microscope to check for the presence of cancer cells.
What is the treatment for basal and squamous cell skin cancer?
When detected early, most basal and squamous cell carcinomas can be treated and cured. Be sure to visit your Forefront dermatologist promptly: as skin cancer grows, it can become more dangerous and potentially disfiguring, requiring more extensive treatment.
Your options for basal and squamous cell removal include:
- Curettage and electrodessication
- Mohs surgery
- Excisional surgery
- Cryosurgery
- Laser surgery
- Photodynamic therapy
Your Forefront dermatologist can also prescribe topical medications (creams or gels) that treat superficial basal cell carcinomas with minimal risk of scarring.
The sooner you visit us, the sooner we can treat your skin cancer – and the better your results will likely be.
Can I prevent basal and squamous cell skin cancer?
Skin cancer is America’s most common cancer, but it is also one of the most preventable. While not all skin cancers can be prevented, you can significantly reduce your risk by:
- Limiting your sun exposure
- Using sunscreen daily
- Never using indoor tanning beds
- Avoiding harmful chemicals
- Not smoking
- Protecting your immune system
- Performing regular skin checks
- Visiting a dermatologist for regular check-ups
- Where can I turn for basal and squamous cell carcinoma treatment?
At Forefront our skin care experts are here to protect your skin and your health. Whether you need a routine skin check or skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, our board-certified dermatologists are ready to help.
Find a Forefront location near you to schedule a consultation today.
1 Location in the Indiana, PA area
Interested in Basal Cell Carcinoma? Request a consultation with a skin specialist today.
*Treatment options may vary at each location.Please confirm your desired treatment is offered at your preferred location when scheduling. *Age Restriction.
For patients scheduling who are under 18 years of age (19 in Alabama and Nebraska) please make sure you have permission from your parent or legal guardian to schedule this appointment. Your parent or legal guardian must accompany you on your initial visit and on certain subsequent visits to provide appropriate informed consent.