Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma: The Most Common Skin Cancer

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently diagnosed form of skin cancer, affecting millions of people worldwide each year. Though it's considered the least aggressive type of skin cancer, BCC should never be ignored. Early detection and proper treatment can prevent complications and preserve both your health and appearance.

What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma originates in the basal cells of the skin, which are in the lowest layer of the epidermis. These cells are responsible for producing new skin cells. When DNA damage from UV radiation (typically from sun exposure or tanning beds) affects these cells, they can grow uncontrollably and form a cancerous lesion.

How to Recognize BCC

Basal cell carcinoma often appears in sun-exposed areas of the body, especially the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back. It may look like:

• A pearly or waxy bump
• A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
• A sore that bleeds, heals, and then returns
• A red patch or irritated area that doesn’t go away
• A shiny or translucent growth with visible blood vessels

Because BCC can vary in appearance, it’s important to consult a dermatologist if you notice any new or changing spots on your skin.

Who Is at Risk?

BCC can affect anyone, but certain risk factors increase your chances, including:

• Chronic sun exposure or tanning bed use
• Fair skin, light hair, and blue or green eyes
• A history of frequent sunburns
• Age over 50
• A weakened immune system
• Previous history of skin cancer

Is Basal Cell Carcinoma Dangerous?

While BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body, it can still cause significant local damage if left untreated. It may invade deeper layers of skin, muscle, or even bone, leading to disfigurement, especially when located near the eyes, nose, or ears.

Treatment Options

BCC is highly treatable, especially when detected early. Common treatment methods include:

• Surgical Excision: The tumor is cut out along with a margin of healthy skin.
• Mohs Surgery: A tissue-sparing technique that removes the cancer layer by layer, examining each section under a microscope until no cancer remains. Typically reserved for aggressive tumor types or cosmetically sensitive areas.
• Curettage and Electrodessication: Used for smaller or superficial tumors; involves scraping the lesion and using electric current to destroy remaining cancer cells.
• Topical Medications: Used in select cases for very superficial lesions.
• Radiation Therapy: An option for tumors in difficult-to-treat locations or for patients who cannot undergo surgery.
• Targeted Therapy: Oral medications used particularly when the BCC is locally advanced or metastatic and not amenable to surgery or radiation.

Your dermatologist will recommend the most effective treatment based on the size, location, and type of BCC.

Prevention and Skin Health

Protecting your skin from UV damage is the best way to lower your risk of basal cell carcinoma:

• Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day
• Avoid midday sun exposure and seek shade
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses
• Never use tanning beds
• Check your skin monthly for any changes or new growths
• Schedule regular skin exams with a board-certified dermatologist

When to See a Dermatologist

Any spot that bleeds, doesn’t heal, or keeps coming back should be evaluated by a dermatologist. The earlier BCC is caught, the easier it is to treat — often with minimal scarring.