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Basal Cell Carcinoma on Leg
Hello, I was just diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma on my leg. I did not know I had it until I had ongoing pain in my calf that began during covid. When I was seen by the doctor after re-opening, I told her I was worried about a blood clot but she ruled that out. She asked about a lesion on my leg that I had been told by a dermatologist 15 years ago in my 30's that it was "absolutely nothing and didn't need to be followed". She sent me for a biopsy that came back as basal cell carcinoma. The dermatologist who did the biopsy said that maybe years ago it was "nothing" but it had recently changed. My main worry is that the pain in my calf is a sign that it has spread to the lymph nodes. Is there any other reason why basal cell carcinoma would cause pain if it was not being caused by spread to lymph nodes? Following the biopsy, I feel a substantial relief in the pain which makes me think it was pressing on something.
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You and your family have some big decisions ahead of you! I’m happy to hear that you’ve already had friends come to the US and feel comfortable. So if you make that move, I really hope everything works out for you! It’s a very large country so it would be quite the act of fate to actually meet but who knows! ☺️
What type of business did you have in Ukraine?
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1 ReactionI have just been diagnosed with basal cell cancer on my thigh. The doctor is recommending one of two treatments. 1. Scrape the cancer and cauterize underneath. No additional treatment after. 2. Cut out all of the cancer. Will require deeper incisions of the skin. Send the sample to the lab. Some inside and outside stitches to close the wound. Any suggestions or experience with either? I’m meeting with her today and am sort of leaning towards #2. Thanks.
I would consider several factors in your decision.
It is not fatal or likely to spread so minimal concern with cure rate. Your age and does it show readily in summer wear if you care about appearance. Healing time and convenience. Are they both done in your doctors’s office. Cost and insurance. If it small in size curettage
is reasonable. Risk of infection may be similar depending on your activities. Would Mohs be indicated if it large or deep and longstanding?All techniques are just local anesthetic.Good questions to be fully informed. Usually a pretty simple minor surgery
all things considered.
The exact terminology of the two treatment options are E D & C or excision. Would appreciate any input.
I just was diagnosed with basal cell cancer on my thigh. The two treatment options we will be discussing today are ED&C or excision. Any thought that you could share with me? Thanks.
After you discuss the above mentioned factors you
could always ask her “ What treatment would you choose for yourself if you were seeing your dermatologist?” Usually elicits a pause and honest reply.
I agree with #2-- have had scrapes didn't work.
I told my doctor yesterday I want #2. Thanks for the feedback. Best wishes 🤞🙏🏻
Seniormed has best comprehensive answer! "It is not fatal or likely to spread so minimal concern with cure rate"
I have had numerous Basal Cell, Squamous cell, and even two Melanomas.
Basal & Squamous treated with cauterization, or scraping, or moh's.
Only the three on my face were problems and left noticeable scars. One is still very ugly and bothers me quite a bit because of where it was located.
Others were on legs and hand, and were no problem.
I never had any other type of treatment except surgery.
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