Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome Specialist

What is basal cell nevus syndrome?

Basal cell nevus syndrome is a genetic disorder affecting an estimated 1 in every 31,000 people. The disease, also known as Gorlin syndrome, increases your risk for skin cancer and noncancerous tumors.

Basal cell nevus syndrome causes an unusual facial appearance. The disorder also may affect other areas of your body, such as your: 

• Nervous system
• Eyes
• Bones
• Endocrine glands
• Urinary organs

The disorder also may affect your reproductive systems and cause ovarian tumors.

How can I tell if I have basal cell nevus syndrome?

This disorder typically develops in concert with noncancerous jaw tumors or a type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma. The skin cancer and tumors usually develop in the early teens around the time of puberty.

Other symptoms of basal cell nevus syndrome include:

• Broad nose
• Cleft palate
• Heavy, protruding brow
• Wide-set eyes 
• Pitting on palms and soles

Basal cell nevus syndrome may affect your nervous system, leading to:

• Brain tumors
• Seizures
• Blindness
• Deafness
• Intellectual issues

This disorder also causes bone defects, such as a curvature of your back or abnormal ribs.

What causes basal cell nevus syndrome?

A gene passed down in families causes the syndrome; you can develop this disorder if either parent passes the gene onto you.

How can I tell if I have basal cell nevus syndrome?

Your practitioner at the office of Ali Hendi, MD, takes your medical history, asking whether your relatives have this condition. They examine your skin for skin cancers, which are a common sign of the syndrome.

They recommend tests to look for abnormalities and confirm your diagnosis. They may perform a biopsy on any suspicious-looking growths they suspect of being basal cell skin cancer. 

If you’re diagnosed with basal cell nevus syndrome, the team at the office of Ali Hendi, MD, works closely with other specialists. Together, they ensure you’re getting all the care you need for this complex disorder.

How is basal cell nevus syndrome treated?

The team at the office of Ali Hendi, MD, addresses any basal cell skin cancers that develop as a result of your condition. The practice is one of the few with a surgeon with the expertise and training to provide Mohs surgery, which offers the highest cure rate for basal cell carcinoma.

The team also suggests you come in regularly for skin cancer surveillance to catch new skin cancers that develop with basal cell nevus syndrome.

Trust the skin cancer specialists for high-quality care for basal cell nevus syndrome. Call today to book a consultation with the office of Ali Hendi, MD.