Diseases

Basal Cell Carcinoma

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Basal cell carcinoma n. A slow-growing, locally invasive, but rarely metastasizing neoplasm of the skin derived from basal cells of the epidermis or hair follicles. Also called basal cell epithelioma .

SYMPTOMS

Skin: lesion, redness, loss of colour, small bump, swollen blood vessels in the skin, or ulcers. Also common: skin nodules

CAUSES

Ultraviolet light and other causes. Much of the damage to dna in basal cells is thought to result from ultraviolet (uv) radiation found in sunlight and in commercial tanning lamps and tanning beds. But sun exposure doesn't explain skin cancers that develop on skin not ordinarily exposed to sunlight.