Basal Cell CarcinomaThis tumor of the skin usually appears as a small, fleshy bump or nodule
on the head, neck and hands. Occasionally these nodules may appear on the trunk of the
body, usually as flat growths. Basal cell carcinomas seldom occur in dark-skinned persons;
they are the most common skin cancers found in Caucasians. It has been found that
people who have this cancer frequently have light hair, eyes and complexions, and they
don't tan easily.
These tumors don't spread quickly. It may take many months or years for
one to reach a diameter of one half inch. Untreated, the cancer will begin to bleed, crust
over, then repeat the cycle.
Although this type of cancer does not metastasize (spread to carcinomas seldom other
parts of the body), it can extend below the skin to the bone and cause considerable local
damage.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
These tumors may appear as nodules or as red, scaly patches. Squamous cell carcinoma is
the second most common skin cancer found in Caucasians. It typically is found on the rim
of the ear, the face, the lips and mouth. It is rarely found on dark skinned persons. This
cancer will increase in size, developing in time into large masses. Unlike Basal cell
carcinoma, it can metastasize. The cure rate for both basal cell and squamous cell
carcinoma is 95 percent, when properly treated.
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