Basal Cell Carcinoma is a type of skin cancer usually arising from sun-damaged skin. It can cause lumps, bumps, pimples, or lesions on the skin. These lumps can be itchy or painful and grow gradually over time. Basal cell carcinoma commonly appears on the areas most exposed to the sun including face, scalp, nose, eyelids, legs, and more.

Consult with the best dermatologists for basal cell carcinoma treatment at the CK Birla Hospital in Delhi.

• Tissue Damage: Basal cell carcinoma can invade and destroy the surrounding skin and even bone over time. 
• Ulceration & Infection: Untreated conditions can lead to the opening of lesions, bleeding, and infection, resulting in chronic wounds and discomfort. 
• Increased Size & Depth: Untreated basal cell carcinoma gradually grows larger and deeper, making treatment more complex.
• Rare Spread: It's rare, though basal cell carcinoma may spread and may cause life-threatening complications. 

• Avoid excessive sun exposure, particularly from 10 AM to 4 PM.
• Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours.
• Wear protective clothing like long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, etc.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, avoid smoking & keep skin moisturised. 
• Self-examine your skin monthly & check for new changes, growths, etc.
• Visit a dermatologist annually or twice a year for evaluation.

Diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma can be done by a thorough physical examination by a dermatologist. The specialist might ask questions about the symptoms, including: 

When did the symptom first appear?
Did the lesion change in size? 
Is the lesion painful or itchy?

• Skin Biopsy: A tissue from the affected area is tested to determine if the condition is cancerous or non-cancerous. 
• MRI: To detect cancer in lymph nodes or internal organs.

• Avoid blood-thinning medicines or other medicines advised by your doctor. 
• Keep the affected area clean & dry.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you. 
• Follow fasting instructions if advised.
• Don’t apply makeup, lotions, or creams before treatment. 

• Apply prescribed ointments and take the recommended medicines.
• Avoid sun exposure on the treated area. 
• Keep the treated area clean, dry, and avoid touching it.
• Check for signs of infection, like swelling, redness, pus, etc.
• Avoid strenuous activities if treatment is done through surgery. 

The recovery after basal cell carcinoma treatment depends on the type of treatment, different treatment types have varying recovery times. Additionally, larger tumours in complex locations may also take more time to heal. 

• The initial healing, like wounds from the procedure, may start to heal within 2 to 4 weeks.
• The incision lines, fading of scars may take a few months to a year.