Name of the Condition

• Basal cell carcinoma of skin of other part of trunk
• Often referred to as BCC or nonmelanoma skin cancer

Summary

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, arising from the basal cells at the bottom layer of the epidermis. It typically occurs on areas of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, including different parts of the trunk.

Causes

• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds
• Genetic predisposition, including conditions like Gorlin syndrome
• Compromised immune system

Risk Factors

• Fair skin, light-colored eyes, and hair
• Older age
• Male gender
• Previous history of skin cancer
• Long-term exposure to arsenic

Symptoms

• A pearly or waxy bump on the skin
• Flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
• Bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns

Diagnosis

• Skin examination by a healthcare provider
• Biopsy of the suspicious lesion to confirm

Treatment Options

• Surgical excision: removing the cancerous tissue
• Mohs surgery: precise surgical technique to remove cancer
• Cryotherapy: freezing cancer cells
• Radiation therapy or topical treatments for non-surgical candidates

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• BCCs generally have an excellent prognosis when treated promptly
• Regular skin check-ups are necessary to monitor any new or recurrent lesions

Complications

• Local tissue damage if untreated
• Increased risk of recurrence or developing other skin cancers

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular use of high-SPF sunscreen
• Wearing protective clothing and hats when outdoors
• Avoiding peak sun exposure hours
• Regular skin self-examinations

When to Seek Professional Help

• Noticeable changes in skin appearance, such as new growths or sores that do not heal
• Rapid changes in size, shape, or color of an existing lesion

Additional Resources

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

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate site specification: note "other part of trunk" to differentiate from other trunk locations
• Verify clinical documentation for any additional skin lesions to be coded separately
• Avoid confusing with other nonmelanoma skin cancers like squamous cell carcinoma