Lesion Removed From the Tip of President’s Nose
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WASHINGTON — A small lesion was removed from the tip of President Reagan’s nose Wednesday in what the White House physician said was a routine procedure performed under a local anesthetic at the White House.
A similar procedure was performed two years ago on the 76-year-old President, when a skin cancer known as basal cell carcinoma was removed. Three months later, additional cells that were missed in the first procedure were removed.
Dr. John Hutton, the White House physician, said a biopsy would be conducted on the lesion. Such microscopic examination of the tissue is intended to determine whether the growth is benign or malignant.
White House spokesman Marlin Fitzwater, who described the growth as “very small,” said the results of the biopsy probably will be announced today.
The basal cell carcinoma, a common form of cancer, is often caused by overexposure to the sun. The President has been advised to limit his exposure to sunlight.
In the past, doctors have dismissed any link between the skin cancers and the colon cancer for which Reagan underwent surgery in July, 1985. The President is examined about twice a year for recurrence of colon cancer, and two polyps were removed on June 26.
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