What is a basal cell carcinoma (BCC)?

• BCC is the most common type of skin cancer. It's often easily treated and cured in most cases.

• Although BCC qualifies as a cancer, its harmful effects, if recognized and treated early, are usually minor.

• BCC is usually very slow growing and rarely spreads (metastasizes), but it can cause serious local invasion and destruction if it's ignored or treated inadequately.

Basal cell carcinoma

Who gets it?

• A light complexion with poor tanning ability is a risk factor.

• People who develop BCC often have a history of long-term sun exposure.

• Other family members may also have a history of BCC.

What does it look like?

• It resembles a shiny “pimple” or sore that does not heal.

• It's usually a dome-shaped bump with a pearly appearance.

• It may have a small scab on its surface.

How is it diagnosed?

• Diagnosis is generally made by a skin biopsy.

Basal cell carcinoma

How is it treated?

• Most often, a simple minor office procedure called electrodesiccation and curettage is performed for small growths and for very superficial BCCs.

• Surgical removal (excision) is the preferred method for larger tumors.

• Micrographic (Mohs') surgery may be the preferred method for recurrent or very large lesions. Mohs' micrographic surgery is a microscopically controlled method of removing skin cancers that allows for controlled excision and maximum preservation of normal skin. Excisions are repeated in the areas proven to be cancerous until a completely cancer-free specimen is obtained.

• Other treatment methods include the following:

  • Cryosurgery (“freezing”) with liquid nitrogen is a treatment option.

  • Radiation therapy is used for those patients who are physically debilitated or who are unable to undergo excisional surgery.

  • A topical cream known as Aldara is sometimes used to treat certain superficial types of BCCs.

Basal cell carcinoma

How do I avoid getting BCCs in the future?

• Avoid exposure to sun.

  • Carefully plan outdoor activities before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m.

  • Wear a broad-brimmed hat during outdoor activities, and use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater.

• Learn skin self-examination, and have annual skin examinations performed by your dermatologist.

What are some general preventive methods?

• Sun avoidance measures:

  • Sunscreen

  • Hat with brim

  • Sunglasses with ultraviolet protection

  • Tinted windshields and side windows in cars

  • Protective clothing made of tightly woven or knitted fabrics that allows less sunlight to pass through is available.

• Follow-up: after therapy, periodic skin examinations