Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

BCC accounts for about 70% of non-melanoma skin cancers and begin in the lower layer of the epidermis (top, outer layer of the skin). It can appear anywhere on the body but most commonly develops on parts of the body that receive high or intermittent sun exposure (head, face, neck, shoulders and back). These carcinomas typically grow slowly and vary in size and appearance.

Fortunately, basal cell carcinomas rarely spread beyond the skin (metastasise) to other parts of the body. More often these tumours extend locally and destroy the surrounding tissue. Basal cell carcinomas on the face, ears, and scalp can behave more aggressively. Early detection and prompt treatment ensure an optimal outcome for this type of skin cancer.

Signs and symptoms

Basal cell carcinomas may appear and grow so slowly that you may not detect them initially. It is important to see your dermatologist when you notice a change in your skin that might indicate basal cell carcinoma, such as:

• A smooth, pale growth that may have a dent or dimple in the middle

• A small, pearly or waxy bump

• A red patch or irritated area

• A sore that scabs, heals, and regrows

• A bleeding or oozing sore

Dr Aslam offers a full range of treatments for basal cell carcinoma. He will perform a careful evaluation to determine the best treatment plan for each patient's unique set of circumstances and is an expertise in Mohs surgery, which is considered one of the most effective forms of treatment for basal cell carcinoma.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

SCC accounts for about 30% of non-melanoma skin cancers and begins in the upper layer of the epidermis, usually appearing where the skin has had most exposure to the sun (head, neck, hands, forearms and lower legs but can appear anywhere, including the genitals). SCC generally grows quickly over weeks or months, which is why they are considered potentially more dangerous than BCC. When detected early, squamous cell carcinoma is easily treatable. Regular skin cancer screenings are important for early detection of this and other types of skin cancer. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can be potentially fatal. It is important to see your dermatologist whenever you notice a change in a mole or area of your skin. Squamous cell carcinoma symptoms include:

• A sore that won't heal, or that heals and then regrows

• An elevated growth on the skin that feels rough

• A reddish, scaly patch that grows slowly

If you have a sore or scab for more than two months without healing, or a flat patch of scaly skin that won't go away, make an appointment to see Dr Aslam. Squamous cell carcinoma is a highly treatable form of cancer, especially when detected early. The most effective treatment for SCC is usually surgery.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a form of cancer that develops in the skin's pigment cells (melanocytes) and is the most serious form of skin cancer and grows very quickly if left untreated. It can spread to the lower part of your skin (dermis), enter the lymphatic system or bloodstream and then spread to other parts of the body; for example, the lungs, liver, brain or bone. We now know that there are several well-defined risk factors for melanoma. Identifying patients who are high-risk for melanoma and maintaining close surveillance will help assure early detection and implementation of treatment as early as possible. Specifically, patients who are high-risk for melanoma may have:

• A prior history of melanoma

• Family history of melanoma

• Atypical/dysplastic moles

• A large number of moles

• "Atypical mole" syndrome ("dysplastic nevus" syndrome)