Basal Cell Carcinoma

What is it?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It typically develops in areas of skin exposed to the sun, like the face, ears, neck, or hands. It grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms?

A small, shiny bump or nodule on the skin
A flat, scaly patch of skin that may bleed or crust
A wound that does not heal
Itching or tenderness around the lesion

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Squamous cell carcinoma
Actinic keratosis
Seborrheic keratosis
Melanoma (less likely)

What are the aggravating factors?

Chronic sun exposure or tanning bed use
Fair skin
Family history of skin cancer
Weakened immune system

What types of food are helpful?

Antioxidants: Foods high in antioxidants (e.g., berries, green tea, spinach) can help protect the skin from UV damage.
Vitamin D: Moderate sun exposure or foods like fortified dairy, egg yolks, and fatty fish can help maintain healthy skin.
Omega-3 fatty acids: From fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts to reduce inflammation.

Sample Recipe: Salmon with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Spinach

Ingredients: Salmon, sweet potatoes, spinach, olive oil.
Directions: Roast the sweet potatoes and serve with grilled salmon and sautéed spinach.

What are the traditional treatments?

Surgical excision: The most common treatment to remove the cancerous growth.
Mohs surgery: A precise technique to remove BCC while preserving healthy tissue.
Topical treatments: Creams or gels, like imiquimod, to treat superficial BCC.
Radiation therapy: Used in cases where surgery is not possible.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Green tea extract: Contains polyphenols that have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties.
Aloe vera: Known for its skin-healing properties, aloe vera may help soothe sunburn and prevent skin damage.
Vitamin E oil: Used topically to help protect the skin from oxidative stress.