Hello
I’m in my early 70’s and my GP has suggested that I may have a Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma which is located on my left forearm. The earliest possible appointment with an NHS dermatologist is in 12 months time. I’ve had the SBCC for about 5 years. Should this be treated sooner rather than later, especially not knowing what is happening under the skin?
Hi Fellows and a very warm welcome to the online community
I'm sorry to read that your GP thinks you may have a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). If you look at the information I've linked you to you'll see that they are the most common form of skin cancer in the UK accounting for more than 80%of all skin cancers. BCCs rarely spread to other parts of the body and, although they are a form of skin cancer, they are rarely a threat to life. Because of this it's common for it to take a couple of months from being referred by your GP until you are examined by a dermatologist but I think I might question my GP if 12 months is really the earliest you can be seen.
You could see a dermatologist privately and an initial consultation usually costs between £150 and £200. If this is something you could afford to do you could probably see someone within a week. If it does turn out to be a BCC then you could have it removed under the NHS if it costs too much to do privately.
Let us know how you get on and what you decide to do.
x
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