Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

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Basal Cell Cancer (BCC) is the most common skin cancer

Skin Cancer Picture | Basal Cell Cancer

Most of us are born with 20 milk (baby) teeth and 32 permanent (adult) teeth. However, there are some of us (0.2%-3% of the population) who were born with an extra tooth or two. These types of teeth are called supernumerary teeth and they can occur anywhere in the mouth, usually appearing separately or in pairs or clusters.

Basal Cell Cancer (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma, or BCC, is a cancer of the basal cells at the bottom of the epidermis. It is sometimes called a rodent ulcer as it slowly grows into the skin causing bleeding and ulceration.

BCC is the most common type of skin cancer and mostly develop in areas of skin exposed to the sun such as the head, face, ears and neck.

Most BCCs are slow-growing and almost never spread to other parts of the body.

Nearly everyone with a BCC who has treatment is completely cured, but some BCCs are aggressive, and, if left to grow, may spread into the deeper layers of the skin and sometimes to the bones.

A small number of BCCs may also recur in the same area of skin after treatment (local recurrence).

What causes Basal Cell Cancer?

As with all skin cancers, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the forms of sunlight or artificial tanning is the major cause of most BCCs.
 
Those more at risk of developing BCC include fair skin individuals who are more likely to burn in the sun, people who have spent prolonged periods exposed to sunlight (certain professions or hobbies) and those with frequent use of tanning beds.

How do I tell if I have Basal Cell Cancer?

BCC can appear anywhere on the body, but most commonly found on areas of the body which are more frequently exposed to sunlight, including the face, head, neck and ears.
 
There are several types of BCC-
  • Superficial BCC occurs only on the skin surface, and may resemble a patch of eczema which does not respond to treatment
  • Nodular BCC is the most common type, it starts as a lump which may slowly get bigger, bleed and develop into an ulcer
  • Infiltrative BCC is less common and may not show any obvious lump on the surface, although the cancer cells have invaded deep into the skin
 
It is important to seek treatment for any suspicious skin growth. Our dermatologist can examine the skin growth in detail and perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

Book a Consultation & Protect Your Skin

Our team of experienced dermatologists and skin surgeons are here to help you identify, diagnose, and manage any suspicious skin changes with precision and care. Don’t ignore unusual spots or slow-healing lesions, book your appointment today for a thorough evaluation and peace of mind.

How can I prevent Basal Cell Cancer?

When out in the sun, it is important to protect the skin from sunburn by using a high factor sunscreen, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day and covering the skin when exposed to sunlight.
 
Minimise chronic sun exposure can prevent sun damage of the skin, reducing the risk of developing BCC.

How is Basal Cell Cancer treated?

The most common and best treatment for BCC is surgical excision. Cancer cure is achieved by removing the skin lesion entirely by Mohs Surgery or wide excision, to ensure that no cancer cells are left behind. Mohs Surgery is still the best treatment to ensure the best cure rate and minimise surgical wound.
Depending on the type, location and severity of BCC, our dermatologist will discuss treatment options. There are other treatment such as cryosurgery using liquid nitrogen freezing spray, topical creams, photodynamic therapy, curettage with electrosurgery, and radiotherapy.
Read The Straits Times article on skin cancer and Mohs Surgery by Dr Tay Liang Kiat

Frequently Asked Questions

Just like your wisdom teeth, buried supernumeraries might cause you issues in the future like teeth eruption problems, malalignment of
teeth or even cystic formation. It is thus best to get a consultation on whether they need to be removed.

Possible complications include bleeding, swelling, mild discomfort in your jaw, and infection. The bleeding usually stops after a couple of days and swelling will go away after a few days. Antibiotics and painkillers will be prescribed to address any pain or infection.

Every person heals differently but the average downtime can range from a few days to a week.

Preparations can vary from person to person, but in general, maintaining  good oral hygiene is key to good healing. Stop smoking for at least 2 weeks prior to the surgery. If sedation or general anesthesia is indicated, avoid eating or drinking for 6 hours before  your surgery.

Our Dermatologist

Dermatologist Dr Tay Liang Kiat

Dr Tay Liang Kiat

Dr Tay Liang Kiat is a fully accredited Dermatologist who specialises in skin cancers, Mohs micrographic surgery, dermatologic and nail surgery, aesthetic dermatology and laser procedures. With more than 25 years of clinical experience, he also manages other aspects of general ambulatory and inpatient dermatology, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, urticaria, hair loss, children skin issues and other complex medical dermatology. In addition, he has expertise in the use of the latest immunotherapy (biologics) treatment for severe eczema, psoriasis and urticaria.

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