Name of the Condition

• Basal cell carcinoma of the skin of the left upper eyelid, including canthus

Summary

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells, which are a part of the skin's epidermis. When it occurs on the left upper eyelid, including the canthus (the corner where the upper and lower eyelids meet), it can affect both the function and appearance of the eye area.

Causes

• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, typically from the sun or tanning beds, is a primary cause.
• DNA mutations in basal cells, which can alter normal cell growth.

Risk Factors

• Excessive sun exposure, especially without protection.
• Fair skin, which has less melanin and therefore less natural UV protection.
• A history of frequent sunburns, particularly during childhood.
• Older age, as it typically develops over many years.
• A personal or family history of skin cancer.

Symptoms

• A pearly or waxy bump on the eyelid.
• A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion.
• New and persistent changes in the appearance of the eyelids or surrounding areas.
• Ulceration or bleeding in some cases if the lesion is not treated promptly.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a dermatologist or specialist.
• Biopsy of the suspicious lesion to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
• Dermatoscopy or imaging techniques may assist in the evaluation process.

Treatment Options

• Surgical excision to remove cancerous tissue.
• Mohs micrographic surgery, which involves removing the cancer layer by layer while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
• Cryotherapy, where extreme cold is used to destroy abnormal cells.
• Topical chemotherapy or radiation therapy in certain cases.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Basal cell carcinoma generally has a good prognosis when detected early and treated appropriately.
• Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for recurrence or new tumors, as individuals with one BCC are at a higher risk for developing more.

Complications

• Cosmetic disfigurement and damage to the eyelid or surrounding tissue if untreated.
• In very rare cases, local invasion to nearby tissues or structures.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use of broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
• Wearing protective clothing and hats to minimize sun exposure.
• Frequent skin checks for new or changing lesions.
• Avoidance of tanning beds and minimizing sun exposure during peak hours.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Any new growth or change in the skin of the eyelid.
• Persistent sores or lesions that do not heal.
• Bleeding or changes in the appearance of a mole or lesion.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology: aad.org
• Skin Cancer Foundation: skincancer.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate identification of the affected site—the left upper eyelid including canthus—in documentation.
• Verify the specifics of the diagnosis and treatment approach, as coding may vary.
• Avoid common errors such as confusing basal cell carcinoma with other types of skin lesions or carcinomas.