Basal Cell
Basal cell cancer is not only the most common skin cancer, it is the most common cancer in humans. These skin cancers may appear as translucent pink bumps that can mimic pimples, moles, or other benign growths. Other basal cell cancers may be skin-colored or may have clumps of dark pigmentation. These lesions may bleed easily or may be unable to heal at a normal rate. While they generally appear in areas of chronic sun exposure, they may appear anywhere on the body. While they can grow in the skin and become locally destructive, they do not spread throughout the body. Depending on the size and depth of a basal cell cancer, these can be treated successfully with excision, Mohs surgery, or even topical prescriptions.
When assessing and determining a diagnosis for her patients, Dr. Sherber looks for subtle abnormalities in the vascular and pigment network through examination with dermoscopy.
RECOMMENDED TREATMENTS
As part of a skin check, Dr. Sherber ensures that her patients have a comprehensive treatment plan and thorough follow-up in the years following diagnosis. Following a basal cell cancer diagnosis, Dr. Sherber may suggest that patients get a series of total body photographs to give a baseline to use against any future skin exam imaging. In combination with this treatment plan and progress imaging, ongoing use of a broad spectrum sun protection and regular total body skin examinations will be critically important.
Depending on the depth and size of the basal cell cancer, Dr. Sherber may involve a Mohs surgeon, plastic surgeon, or oncologist as needed. Throughout the treatment process, patients will have extensive support from her team of top experts who prioritize the care of her patients and ensure that treatment is prompt and complete.
For superficial variants, a topical treatment approach may be appropriate which can be applied to the area or areas diagnosed with basal cell cancer.
For basal cell cancers on the face, pre-treating the area of excision with laser and/or Botox may be advisable to optimize scar healing.