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Basal cell nevus syndrome - Prevention

Alternative Names

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome; Gorlin syndrome

Prevention:

Couples with a family history of this syndrome might consider genetic counseling before becoming pregnant.

Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are necessary to help prevent new basal cell skin cancers.

Avoid ionizing radiation such as x-rays. People with this condition are very sensitive to radiation, and exposure can lead to skin cancers.

Basal cell nevus syndrome - close-up of palm

Basal cell nevus syndrome - plantar pits

Basal cell nevus syndrome - face and hand

Basal cell nevus syndrome

Basal cell nevus syndrome - face

Reviewed last on: 8/3/2011
Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Morelli JG. Tumors of the skin. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2011:chap 662.

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