Basal cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulder Save

Basal Cell Carcinoma of Skin of Upper Limb, Including Shoulder

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer that affects the upper limb, including the shoulder. It is a slow-growing cancer that usually develops on sun-exposed areas of the skin, but it can also appear on unexposed areas such as the shoulder.

Individuals who have fair skin, blonde or red hair, and blue or green eyes are more susceptible to BCC. Additionally, those who have a history of excessive sun exposure or sunburns are also at greater risk.

BCC often appears as a small, pearly, or waxy bump on the skin, but it can also look like a flat, scaly, or brown patch. It may bleed or form a crust, but it rarely causes pain or discomfort.

If left untreated, BCC can grow deeper into the skin and damage surrounding tissues, including bones and nerves. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention if you notice any unusual changes in your skin, especially if you have a history of sun exposure or sunburns.

1. Diagnosis

To diagnose BCC, a dermatologist will examine your skin and may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of the affected skin and examining it under a microscope.

2. Treatment

There are several treatment options available for BCC, including:

• Surgical excision: This involves removing the cancerous tissue and a small margin of healthy skin around it.
• Mohs surgery: This is a specialized surgical technique that involves removing the cancerous tissue layer by layer until all cancer cells have been removed.
• Cryosurgery: This involves freezing the cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen.
• Topical chemotherapy: This involves applying a cream or lotion to the affected area to kill cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: This involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
3. Prevention

The best way to prevent BCC is to protect your skin from the sun. You can do this by:

• Wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats.
• Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Avoiding sun exposure during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).

• Diagnosis Codes for Basal cell carcinoma of skin of upper limb, including shoulder | C44.61

  • C44.611, Basal cell carcinoma of skin of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder
  • C44.612, Basal cell carcinoma of skin of right upper limb, including shoulder
  • C44.619, Basal cell carcinoma of skin of left upper limb, including shoulder

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