Basal Cell Skin Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Risks

By EmpowHER

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Symptoms and signs of basal cell skin cancer:

The Mayo Clinic describes basal cell cancers as appearing like a pearly or waxy bump or a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion. Medicinenet adds that there may be small, superficial blood vessels called telangiectases covering the skin as well. Basal cell carcinomas typically grow slowly and can take months to years to become large enough to notice.

Diagnosis of basal cell skin cancer is made from a biopsy where the skin sample is examined under a microscope. Your doctor will decide if additional tests are needed.

Risk factors for basal cell cancer are having a fair complexion, being over the age of 50 and having received excess exposure to the sun or UV light from tanning beds. A weakened immune system and exposure to certain medications or substances such as arsenic can make one more susceptible to skin cancer.

https://www.empowher.com/cancer/content/skin-cancer-basal-cell