Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

Micronodular basal cell carcinoma (MBCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells of the skin. Basal cells are responsible for making new skin cells as the old ones die off. MBCC is a relatively rare form of basal cell carcinoma, but it’s important to know about its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. In this article, we’ll break down the key information in simple terms to help you better understand this condition.

Micronodular basal cell carcinoma is a specific subtype of basal cell carcinoma. It gets its name from the tiny, round clusters of cancer cells it forms under the skin’s surface. These clusters, or nodules, are often smaller than 1 millimeter in diameter.

Types of Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

There are several subtypes of basal cell carcinoma, including the micronodular type. However, for the purposes of this article, we’ll focus on micronodular basal cell carcinoma.

Causes of Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

  1. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation Exposure: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds is a major risk factor for MBCC.
  2. Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition that makes them more susceptible to developing MBCC.
  3. Fair Skin: People with fair skin are at a higher risk because they have less natural protection against UV radiation.
  4. Age: MBCC is more common in older individuals, especially those over 50.
  5. Previous Skin Cancer: If you’ve had basal cell carcinoma or other types of skin cancer before, your risk of developing MBCC may be higher.
  6. Weakened Immune System: Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system can increase the risk of MBCC.
  7. Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins in the environment may contribute to the development of MBCC.
  8. Geographical Location: Living in areas with high sun exposure, such as sunny climates, can increase the risk.
  9. Radiation Therapy: Past radiation treatment for other medical conditions can raise the risk of MBCC in the treated area.
  10. Personal History: A history of frequent sunburns or excessive sun exposure during childhood can increase the likelihood of MBCC later in life.

Symptoms of Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

  1. Small Bumps: The most common sign is the appearance of small, translucent, or pearly bumps on the skin that may be pink, red, or white.
  2. Bleeding or Oozing: These bumps can sometimes bleed or ooze, forming a crust.
  3. Slow-Growing: MBCC tends to grow slowly and may not be painful in the early stages.
  4. Scar-Like Appearance: In some cases, MBCC may resemble a scar, making it easy to be mistaken for a benign skin condition.
  5. Ulceration: If left untreated, MBCC can ulcerate, causing an open sore that doesn’t heal.
  6. Change in Skin Color: The affected area might change in color, becoming darker or lighter than the surrounding skin.
  7. Waxy Appearance: Some nodules may have a waxy or shiny appearance.
  8. Irregular Blood Vessels: Dilated or prominent blood vessels may be visible within the lesion.
  9. Local Pain or Itching: As the cancer advances, you may experience pain or itching in the affected area.
  10. Eyelid Involvement: If MBCC develops near the eyes, it can affect eyelid function.

Diagnostic Tests for Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

  1. Skin Biopsy: A small sample of the affected skin is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of MBCC.
  2. Dermoscopy: This non-invasive technique involves using a specialized tool to closely examine the skin lesions and determine their characteristics.
  3. Confocal Microscopy: A painless imaging technique that provides high-resolution images of skin lesions to aid in diagnosis.
  4. Ultrasound: In some cases, ultrasound may be used to assess the thickness and depth of MBCC.
  5. CT Scan or MRI: These imaging tests may be ordered if there is concern that MBCC has spread to deeper tissues.

 Treatment Options for Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma

  1. Surgical Excision: The most common and effective treatment involves surgically removing the MBCC along with a margin of healthy skin.
  2. Mohs Surgery: This precise surgical technique removes the cancer layer by layer, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.
  3. Electrodesiccation and Curettage: A procedure in which the cancer is scraped away (curettage) and the base is burned (electrodesiccation).
  4. Cryotherapy: The use of extreme cold to freeze and destroy the cancer cells.
  5. Topical Medications: Some superficial MBCCs can be treated with prescription creams containing imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil.
  6. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A special light-activated medication is applied to the skin, and then the area is exposed to light, which destroys the cancer cells.
  7. Radiation Therapy: In cases where surgery is not an option, radiation therapy may be used.
  8. Targeted Therapy: For advanced cases, medications targeting specific molecular changes in cancer cells may be prescribed.
  9. Immunotherapy: Boosting the immune system’s ability to fight cancer cells can be effective in some cases.
  10. Clinical Trials: Participating in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments that are still being studied.

Drugs Used in Micronodular Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment

  1. Imiquimod (Aldara): A topical cream that stimulates the immune system to attack cancer cells.
  2. 5-Fluorouracil (Efudex): Another topical cream that kills cancer cells by interfering with their DNA.
  3. Vismodegib (Erivedge): A medication used for advanced or metastatic MBCC, targeting specific molecular pathways.
  4. Sonidegib (Odomzo): Similar to Vismodegib, it’s used in advanced cases to inhibit cancer growth.
  5. Cemiplimab (Libtayo): An immunotherapy drug that helps the immune system fight MBCC.
  6. Pembrolizumab (Keytruda): Another immunotherapy drug that may be used in advanced cases.
  7. Interferon: A medication that boosts the immune system’s response to cancer cells.
  8. Cobimetinib (Cotellic): Used in combination with Vismodegib for advanced MBCC.
  9. Sonidegib and Buparlisib Combination: An experimental treatment in clinical trials.
  10. Talimogene Laherparepvec (Imlygic): An oncolytic virus therapy.

Conclusion:

Micronodular basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that primarily affects the basal cells in the skin. It is caused by factors like UV radiation exposure, genetics, and age. Recognizing its symptoms, which include small, pearly bumps, bleeding, and slow growth, is crucial for early diagnosis. A skin biopsy is the most common way to confirm MBCC and various treatment options are available, including surgery, medications, and therapies. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for MBCC, individuals can take proactive steps in managing and treating this form of skin cancer. If you suspect you may have MBCC or have concerns about your skin, consult a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Remember, early detection and treatment can greatly improve outcomes.

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, always seek the advice of a medical professional before trying any treatments to ensure to find the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this page or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

  1. https://medlineplus.gov/skinconditions.html
  2. https://www.aad.org/about/burden-of-skin-disease
  3. https://www.usa.gov/federal-agencies/national-institute-of-arthritis-musculoskeletal-and-skin-diseases
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/skin/default.html
  5. https://www.skincancer.org/
  6. https://www.jaad.org/
  7. https://www.psoriasis.org/about-psoriasis/
  8. https://books.google.com/books?
  9. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/skin-diseases
  10. https://cms.centerwatch.com/directories/1067-fda-approved-drugs/topic/292-skin-infections-disorders
  11. https://www.fda.gov/files/drugs/published/Acute-Bacterial-Skin-and-Skin-Structure-Infections—Developing-Drugs-for-Treatment.pdf
  12. https://dermnetnz.org/topics
  13. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments/allergies/skin-allergy
  14. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/occupational-skin-disease
  15. https://aafa.org/allergies/allergy-symptoms/skin-allergies/
  16. https://www.nibib.nih.gov/
  17. https://rxharun.com/rxharun/rxharun/article-types/skin-care-beauty/skin-diseases-types-symptoms-treatment/
  18. https://www.nei.nih.gov/
  19. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_skin_conditions
  20. https://en.wikipedia.org/?title=List_of_skin_diseases&redirect=no
  21. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skin_condition
  22. https://oxfordtreatment.com/
  23. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/
  24. https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/w
  25. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health
  26. https://catalog.ninds.nih.gov/
  27. https://www.aarda.org/diseaselist/
  28. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets
  29. https://www.nibib.nih.gov/
  30. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/topics
  31. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/
  32. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics
  33. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/
  34. https://www.niehs.nih.gov
  35. https://www.nimhd.nih.gov/
  36. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics
  37. https://obssr.od.nih.gov/
  38. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics
  39. https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases
  40. https://beta.rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases
  41. https://orwh.od.nih.gov/

References