C44.31

Clinical Causes: Chronic sun exposure, especially UV radiation from sunlight Use of tanning beds or artificial UV sources History of skin burns or frequent sunburns Fair skin, light-colored eyes, and blond or red hair increase risk Older age, as BCC incidence rises with age Exposure to certain carcinogenic chemicals History of skin cancer or radiation therapy in the area Weakened immune system

Key Symptoms: A shiny, translucent or pearly bump on the skin A reddish patch or irritated area that may bleed or crust A sore that heals but then reopens Scar-like area with poorly defined edges Nodule or lesion that increases in size gradually Occasional crusting or bleeding without clear cause

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis primarily involves a clinical skin examination by a healthcare professional. To confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent, a skin biopsy is typically performed, where a small sample of tissue is removed and examined microscopically. Additional imaging tests may be used if there's concern about deeper tissue involvement or spread, though BCC rarely metastasizes. Staging helps in planning the appropriate treatment approach.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment options for basal cell carcinoma of the face include: - Surgical excision, where the cancerous tissue is cut out along with a margin of healthy tissue - Mohs micrographic surgery, especially for high-risk or facial tumors, allowing precise removal while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible - Curettage and electrosurgery for small or less aggressive lesions - Cryotherapy, involving freezing the cancer cells - Topical treatments such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, typically for superficial BCC - Radiation therapy, particularly for patients who are not surgical candidates or for tumors in difficult locations Regular follow-up is important to monitor for recurrence or new skin lesions. Early diagnosis and treatment usually lead to excellent outcomes and minimal scarring.