Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer, strongly linked to UV exposure. It usually grows slowly and rarely metastasizes but can destroy nearby tissue. Key types include nodular, superficial, and morpheaform BCC. Diagnosis requires biopsy; treatments range from surgical excision and Mohs surgery to topical therapies and, for advanced cases, hedgehog pathway inhibitors. People with one BCC have higher risk for more; sun protection and regular dermatologist exams reduce risk and lead to earlier, less invasive treatment.

A porch-side lesson

We were sitting on the old store porch when we noticed Joe's face - a small, crater-like sore with a raised, reddish rim and some crusting inside. Young John, fresh from an anatomy class, said it looked like the picture of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) in his textbook. Joe shrugged it off, but the scene is a useful reminder: odd or slowly changing spots deserve a look.

What is basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It develops in the basal cells of the epidermis and is strongly linked to ultraviolet (UV) exposure from sunlight and tanning beds. BCC rarely spreads to distant organs, but left untreated it can grow deeper into skin, cartilage, and bone and cause serious local damage.

Common types and how they look

Nodular BCC

Often appears on the face as a pearly or translucent bump with rolled edges. It may ulcerate and form a "rodent ulcer." Some nodular lesions have a cystic feel.

Superficial BCC

Usually multiple and often found on the trunk or shoulders. These are flat, pink or red, slightly scaly patches that grow slowly and may bleed.

Morpheaform (sclerosing) BCC

A subtler, scar-like indurated patch that can be hard to see and is more likely to recur after treatment.

If you see a non-healing sore, a new pearly bump, a scaly patch that changes, or a scar-like area, arrange a skin check.

Diagnosis and treatment options

A dermatologist will examine the lesion and usually perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on type, size, and location:

  • Surgical excision with clear margins for most tumors.
  • Mohs micrographic surgery for lesions on the face or those with aggressive features; Mohs offers high cure rates while conserving healthy tissue.
  • Curettage and electrodesiccation for small, low-risk tumors.
  • Topical treatments (imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil) or photodynamic therapy for selected superficial BCCs.
  • Oral hedgehog pathway inhibitors (e.g., vismodegib, sonidegib) for locally advanced or metastatic BCC when surgery or radiation is not an option.

Follow-up and prevention

Having one BCC raises your risk of developing more, and you remain at increased risk for other skin cancers including melanoma. Regular skin examinations (frequency based on your dermatologist's advice) help catch new lesions early.

Sun protection reduces risk: wear protective clothing, seek shade during peak sun hours, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on exposed skin. Avoid tanning beds.

Early detection usually means simpler treatment and less scarring. If you notice a suspicious spot, see a dermatologist.

Originally written by Caroline Gainer.

FAQs about Basal Cell Skin Cancer

How serious is basal cell carcinoma?
BCC is usually not life-threatening because it rarely metastasizes, but it can invade local tissues (skin, cartilage, bone) and cause significant disfigurement if untreated.
How is a basal cell carcinoma diagnosed?
A dermatologist will examine the lesion and perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
What are the common treatments for BCC?
Treatment options include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery for high-risk sites, curettage and electrodesiccation for small tumors, topical therapies for superficial BCC, and oral hedgehog pathway inhibitors for advanced cases when surgery or radiation aren't suitable.
Can I prevent basal cell carcinoma?
You can lower risk by minimizing UV exposure: wear protective clothing, avoid tanning beds, seek shade, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to exposed skin.
If I've had one BCC, what should I do next?
See a dermatologist for regular skin checks. People who have had one BCC are at higher risk for additional skin cancers and should be monitored.

News about Basal Cell Skin Cancer

Teledermatology and face-to-face pathways for basal cell carcinoma diagnosis in a southern European cohort: a comparative histopathologic analysis - Frontiers [Visit Site | Read More]

Normal Moles vs. Skin Cancer: Signs To Watch For - Health: Trusted and Empathetic Health and Wellness Information [Visit Site | Read More]

Skin cancer - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic [Visit Site | Read More]

A Breast Cancer Survivor’s First Brush with Skin Cancer - Cure Today [Visit Site | Read More]

From Basal Cell Carcinoma to Melanoma: What to Know About Skin Cancer - Yale Medicine [Visit Site | Read More]

Gordon Ramsay’s Skin Cancer: The News Heard Around the World - The Skin Cancer Foundation [Visit Site | Read More]

The lesser known symptoms of skin cancer after Adrian Chiles’ diagnosis - The Independent [Visit Site | Read More]

Skin cancer 101: what everyone should know - Cancer Research UK - Cancer News [Visit Site | Read More]