basal cell cancer question

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Question:

Hello all, A family member has been recently diagnosed with this skin cancer. He will be treated next month, I was surprised with the relaxed nature in scheduling treatment, is this common? any other insight would be appreciated. thanks Sean sofaking

Response:

Several years ago I had a basal cell carcinoma removed by my doctor with just a local anaesthetic. I’d only had a tiny area (half a pinkie nail) of itching & slight weeping on occasions. I didn’t actually go to the doc for that, but just mentioned it while I was there. Anyway, despite it being so small, I had 5 internal & 3 external stitches, which amazed me. But he did say they’re seldom, if ever, fatal. Only if they attach themselves (or spread I imagine) to other organs. So it’s not a medical emergency. Carol

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hello all, A family member has been recently diagnosed with this skin cancer. He will be treated next month, I was surprised with the relaxed nature in scheduling treatment, is this common? any other insight would be appreciated. thanks Sean sofaking

Response:

The relaxed nature in common and understandable. This type of cancer is slow growing and rarely spreads past the initial site. I had a spot on my face for well over a year, I had gone to a Dr. who told me it was nothing. Due to the fact that I am also a Melanoma patient, I told the Dr, I wanted it remove. Without a doubt basal cell. Had it removed and it reappeared maybe a year later. Had Mohs surgery and am keeping a close eye on it. I have also found with the Melanoma that dermatologist often have this same attitude, therefore, I always call a surgeon for the Melanoma. I leave the basal cell for the dermatologist. Please no flames, just my experience. babe

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