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Basal Cell Carcinoma

Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology -  - Dermatologist

Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology

Dermatologists located in Tampa, FL & Riverview, FL

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, affecting as many as 4.3 million Americans every year. Robert A. Norman, DO, MPH, MBA, and his team at Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology in Riverview and Tampa, Florida, specialize in the management of basal cell carcinoma and can provide you the care you need. For a consultation, call the office today or request an appointment online.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Q & A

What is basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells of your skin, which are responsible for producing new skin cells to replace your old skin cells. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and is thought to develop due to overexposure to ultraviolet light.

This type of cancer most often occurs on the parts of your body exposed to sunlight, including your face and neck.

What are the symptoms of basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma often appears as a change in your skin, such as an unexpected growth or a sore that doesn’t heal. The skin growth may appear as:

  • Pearly skin bump
  • Brown, black, or blue lesion
  • Red, scaly patch
  • Scar-like lesion

You should make an appointment with the skin experts at Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology if you notice any changes or abnormal growths on your skin.

Basal cell carcinoma can be successfully treated when caught early. But without treatment, your cancer may grow and spread elsewhere in your body (metastasize).

How is basal cell carcinoma diagnosed?

The team at Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology conducts thorough examinations when you come to the office with concerns about skin cancer. During your evaluation, your skin expert reviews your medical and family history and evaluates your skin and the specific area of concern. To diagnose whether the growth is basal cell carcinoma, your skin expert may take a sample and have it tested by a pathologist.

What are the treatments for basal cell carcinoma?

You have many treatment options for basal cell carcinoma. Your skin specialist at Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology can review your options with you and determine the one that makes the best choice for you. Treatment may include:

  • Surgical excision
  • Electrodesiccation and curettage
  • Freezing

Your specialist may also suggest Mohs surgery, which involves removal of your lesion layer by layer until you’ve reached the area of your skin free of the cancer. Superficial basal cell carcinoma may be treated with topical medication.

Even after removal of your basal cell carcinoma, the team at Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology recommends continued follow-ups and monitoring of your skin, as basal cell carcinoma can recur.

Basal cell carcinoma is common, and when it’s caught early, it can be successfully treated. For the management of all your skin concerns, contact Dr. Robert A. Norman Dermatology by phone or online today.

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