No, it is not okay to leave basal cell carcinoma (BCC) untreated. While it is a common and generally slow-growing type of skin cancer, it does not go away on its own and can lead to significant health complications if left unaddressed.
The Dangers of Untreated Basal Cell Carcinoma
Leaving basal cell carcinoma untreated allows the cancer to progress and cause increasingly severe problems over time. Here's what can happen:
- Progressive Growth: The cancerous lesion will continue to grow slowly in size.
- Tissue Invasion: As it grows, the BCC can invade deeper tissues beyond the skin, potentially affecting underlying structures such as muscle, bone, and cartilage. This can lead to disfigurement and functional impairment, especially if the cancer is located near sensitive areas like the eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Pain and Ulceration: The lesion may become painful, tender, and develop into an open sore or ulcer.
- Bleeding and Infection: Ulcerated BCCs are prone to bleeding, even from minor trauma. Open sores also increase the risk of secondary bacterial infections, which can complicate treatment and require additional medical intervention.
Early detection and treatment are crucial for basal cell carcinoma. While it rarely spreads to distant parts of the body (metastasizes), the local damage it can cause if neglected can be substantial and significantly impact a person's quality of life. Prompt medical attention helps ensure effective treatment and minimizes the risk of severe complications.
For more information on basal cell carcinoma, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, you can consult reliable health resources like the Cleveland Clinic's detailed overview: Basal Cell Carcinoma: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.
