Basal Cell Carcinoma

What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal Cell Carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that may form in the basal cells of the skin. These cells are the ones that make new cells to replace the cells that die. It is the most common type of cancer in humans; in fact, just in the United States, new cases exceed four million each year.

Happy older woman with great skin

What Causes It?

Exposure to the ultraviolet rays in sunlight is a main cause of this type of cancer. It’s often found on the areas of the body the sun is most easily able to reach, such as the face, hands, chest, scalp, shoulders and neck. Exposure to radiation and/or arsenic may also be a cause. There may also be a genetic component that increases your risk.

What Are the Symptoms?

Oftentimes, you cannot see symptoms, as they may exist in a spot outside of your vision. For example, you may have a lesion on your back that you are unable to see unless you are looking for it in a mirror. This is why Annual Cancer Screenings are so important. Symptoms can include but are not limited to: 

  • Lumps or nodules on the skin that look shiny or have visible blood vessels. The lumps may get bigger over time.
  • Areas on the skin that resemble scars.
  • Sores that look crusty, have a depression in the middle, or bleed often.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment on the UES

We treat a full range of skin conditions and address your overall well-being. One of the concerns we treat is basal cell carcinoma, which is the most common form of skin cancer. When caught early enough, measures can be taken to get your skin and yourself back to health.* Contact us at 212-396-2500 or via email at info@dramywechsler.com.


* Individual results may vary; not a guarantee.

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We're happy to answer any questions you may have, feel free to call us at
(804) 775-4559