Skin Cancer

[sr1986]

I was diagnosed with basal skin cancer. The spot was on my right side of my nose and I was wondering if this has anything to do with Lupus? Has anyone else been dx with this? If so, how was it removed?

[Paul_Howard Partner LUPUS UK]

Hi sr1986 ,

People who have SLE have a slightly increased risk of getting cancer compared to people who do not have SLE. Lupus is an abnormality of the immune system and a properly working immune system is important for constantly policing the body and getting rid of cancerous cells as they form. A large 2011 study from Europe showed that there were an increased number of cancers in SLE patients due to human papilloma virus (HPV). Infections with HPV have been associated with malignancies such as cervical cancer, anal cancer, throat cancer, and even skin cancer.

You can learn more about basal skin carcinomas and their treatment here - britishskinfoundation.org.u...

[shareasmile]

There are 3 main types of skin cancer, basal cell, squamous cell and melanoma. Of the 3, basal cell carcinoma is the least dangerous. Nevertheless, it is still cancer and needs to be removed somehow since it will never go away on its own. Since it is on your face, I would consider MOHS surgery for removal. This procedure will remove the least amount of facial tissue while still getting all of the cancer out. Sometimes there are freezing procedures or curettage techniques that can be used, but it depends on the size and depth of the cancer. After the cancer is removed, the doctor may be able to do the closure him/herself or you may need to see a good facial plastic surgeon to either use a skin graft or a fancy flap closure of some kind. I hope this helps!

All the best to you!

[sr1986 in reply to shareasmile]

Thank you very much. I thought I had basal cell but I do have stage 1 squamous cell and I do have an appointment for a second opinion and surgery set up. I went through my calendar and have discovered that I have had this for at least 2 years!! I had a facial back in September of 2014 and asked them what it was and they said to have a dr look at it. I tried, but the person I was seeing then refused to acknowledge me. I am just happy that I requested a new dr. or it might be even longer. thanks again!

[shareasmile]

We have to fight for ourselves for sure! A squamous cell cancer can spread internally if it is allowed to grow beyond a certain size--about an American quarter and larger. The fact that it is stage 1 is a good sign that you have caught it early.

[Paloma25]

Thanks for posting this. I was just diagnosed with squamous cell cancer, also very early stage, and will have surgery in two weeks. It was helpful to read your post and the replies. I hope everything went well for you.