A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W

RODENT ULCER - BASAL CELL CARCINOMA

What is a Rodent Ulcer ?

Basal cell tumours are malignant growths of the skin. They commonly develop on the face, but may occur elsewhere on the body. The growths arise from a particular type of cell (basal) which multiplies in an uncontrolled fashion. The tumours start as small smooth hard lumps in the skin which have a pearly appearance. Sometimes, small blood-vessels can be seen at the surface of the lump. The tumours grow and can become very large. As they get bigger, the skin over them breaks down or ulcerates and develops a scab over the top. This may bleed if it is knocked off. Some basal cell tumours, especially those on the body, may remain flat and can become pigmented. Basal cell tumours do not behave like other cancers. They will not spread to other parts of your body, but only grow locally.

How does a Rodent Ulcer occur ?

The major cause of basal cell tumours is sunlight damage to the skin. That is why the commonest sites are those normally exposed to sunlight. Sunlight damage is cumulative. This means that, with time, the amount of sunlight exposure over the years exceeds the level that the skin can tolerate. Tumours such as basal cell tumours then occur. Basal cell tumours are commonest in older people in their 60s and 70s. However, because of easier access to holidays in the sun, more and more younger people are developing them. Uncommon causes of basal cell tumours include the treatment of skin with x-rays and chronic arsenic ingestion. Arsenic was very popular in nerve tonics in the early part of this century. It is now known that arsenic ingestion will lead, many years later, to the development of various types of skin tumours.

Why does a Rodent Ulcer occur ?

The main protection of the skin against sunlight damage is the production of pigment. In Afro-Caribbean and Asian races, basal cell tumours are therefore rare. In pale races they are common. The most susceptible are Celts because they have little pigment and fair skins. Many people have a history of damage or injury to that part of the skin where the basal cell growth later develops. The exact importance of such injury is unknown.

Treatment Involved for a Rodent Ulcer

The clinical diagnosis of this tumour must be confirmed before treatment is given. There are many skin conditions that resemble basal cell tumours. The doctor must be sure of your diagnosis before treatment is given. Confirmation involves the surgical removal of some of the skin which is then examined under the microscope. If it is small, the whole tumour is sometimes removed, combining diagnosis with cure. Three treatments are available to cure the tumour: surgery, cryotherapy and radiotherapy. Small tumours are often best removed surgically . The tumour is cut out after use of a local anaesthetic. The skin is then stitched together, leaving a small scar. An alternative surgical approach is to scrape the tumour off the skin using a small sharp spoon, under local anaesthesia, and then cauterising the base. In cryotherapy (freezing treatment) thin tumours are treated by squirting or dabbing a very cold liquid (liquid nitrogen) on to the tumour. This freezes the growth and kills the malignant cells. After treatment, the area often develops a blister which bursts, crusts, and eventually separates to leave normal skin. Radiotherapy (x-ray treatment) is used for large tumours or for small tumours in awkward places, where surgery or freezing treatment would be difficult. For this treatment, a special mask is made to protect normal skin. The tumour is then treated with x-rays through a hole in the mask. Several treatments are given over about a week. The area may become sore and red, but the tumour eventually develops a scab and falls off. A small, white scar may result.

During Treatment for a Rodent Ulcer

Basal cell growths usually have a high cure rate. All methods surgery, cryotherapy and radiotherapy are effective and should cause you little discomfort.

After Treatment for a Rodent Ulcer

If the tumour is removed surgically, the stitches will need to be removed after about a week. Analysis of the tissue removed will tell the doctor if any of the tumour was left in the skin. In this case, one of the other forms of treatment will be necessary. With all forms of treatment, the tumour may recur. The doctor will therefore arrange a check-up for you at regular intervals.

If a Rodent Ulcer is Left Untreated

If untreated, the tumour would grow larger and would ulcerate and bleed. If near the eye or mouth, the tumour could grow into these structures and lead to blindness or perforation. In some people who refuse treatment or do not seek help, the tumour can become very large and ugly. With ulceration, infection can get into the skin and the tumour can become weepy and smelly. The tumour is unlikely to cause death unless a vital structure such as a main artery is affected. As these tumours are normally very curable, treatment should be given as soon as possible.

Effects on Family of a Rodent Ulcer

Sensitivity of the skin to sun exposure tends to be an inherited trait. Protection of the skin from sun exposure from an early age will prevent skin cancers from developing. Protection includes sun avoidance, use of protective clothing in the sun, i.e. hats, and the use of high factor sunblocks. It is important, particularly in children, to avoid sunburn of the skin.