Name of the Condition

• Basal Cell Carcinoma of Skin of Nose (BCC of the skin of the nose)

Summary

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that originates in the basal cells — small, round cells found at the base of the outer layer of the skin. It commonly occurs on sun-exposed areas, like the nose, and is characterized by localized growths.

Causes

• BCC is primarily caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include fair skin, excessive sun exposure, a history of sunburns, age (being over 50), personal or family history of skin cancer, and chronic exposure to arsenic.

Symptoms

• Symptoms typically include a pearly or waxy bump on the nose, a flesh-colored or brown lesion, a sore that bleeds or doesn’t heal, or a flat, scaly, reddish patch.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is generally made through a skin examination by a dermatologist, often followed by a skin biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment Options

• Treatment options include surgical procedures like excisional surgery, Mohs surgery, cryotherapy, topical medications, and radiation therapy. The goal is to remove or destroy the cancerous cells while preserving healthy tissue.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis for BCC is generally excellent, especially when detected and treated early. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor for any recurrence or new skin cancers.

Complications

• If untreated, BCC can invade surrounding tissues and cause disfigurement. Rarely, it can metastasize, leading to more serious health issues.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• To prevent BCC, it’s important to use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, avoid tanning beds, and perform regular skin self-examinations to catch potential changes early.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if you notice any persistent or unusual skin changes, such as new growths, sores that don’t heal, or changes in existing moles.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), Skin Cancer Foundation, and local dermatology clinics offer detailed resources and support.

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by focusing on the specific location and type of cancer using the code C44.311 for basal cell carcinoma of the nose. Avoid errors by distinguishing between different types of skin cancers and their locations as specified by the ICD code.