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Profile picture for Susan, Volunteer Mentor @grammato3

@bbrits08: Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I detected my first BCC when I was 36 so to have 14 already by your age must be terribly exasperating.

As to why this happening, the causes can be multifactoral. You stated you've only had 3 sunburns in your life which according to the National Institute of Health is actually considered sufficient to increase the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma and recurrence. The scalp can also be a prime area for BCCs to occur due to frequent sun exposure especially if head covering is not routinely used - and it's not an area where topical sun screen can readily be applied. There is also the possibility in cases of recurrent BCCs that genetic predisposition may play a role. If that is suspected, the work up would involve targeted genetic testing ordered by your medical provider.

While Mohs surgery is one way to treat BCCs there are other methods available, such as radition (limited if previously used in the area) or a technique called electrochemotherapy. Please note that IV infusions to treat BCCs are generally reserved for those individuals demonstrating more locally advanced or metastatic disease, which does not appear to be your situation. If you've not already done so, a consultation with an oncologist may be beneficial due to the number of BCCs you've had treated to date to inquire as to your options.

This information sheet from Mayo Clinic provides more information on potential causes and treatment of BCC: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/symptoms-causes/syc-2035418

Does this help provide you with some direction going forward?

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Replies to "@bbrits08: Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I detected my first BCC when I was 36 so..."

@grammato3 I’ve always had a hat. I already have an oncologist and they know I have a methylation disorder which can contribute to it. Genetic testing has been negative so far. Every 6 months is getting old being cut on and having a hole in my head due to not being able to close me up is something I’d rather not do again(it’s been difficult) I had my first one at 23 and then they started up again with a vengeance at 31 and have been every 6 months since then

@grammato3 Hi, the link that was provided here doesn't seem to work. It says "Page Not Found". Is there another link?