What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a skin cancer that develops from the basal cells of the top layer of the skin. Like other types of skin cancer, BCC occurs most commonly in areas of the body with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. BCC can appear as growths with rolled edges, growths with an area of central depression, open sores, red patches, or shiny bumps. In people with darker complexity, BCC can have a brownish color. BCC is usually treatable in the early stages. However, if left untreated,it can spread to other parts of the body and cause further complications.

Risk Factors

Excessive UV exposure (from the sun or indoor tanning) is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers, including BCC. If you’ll be in the sun, generously apply a sunscreen that has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or more and provides protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays to all exposed skin. Re-apply approximately every two hours, even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.

Other risk factors include: history of sunburns, age >50, being male, weakened immune system due to another medical condition or medication side effect, history of sun-sensitive conditions (e.g. xeroderma pigmentosum), fair skin, chronic skin inflammation or infection, family history of skin cancer (including squamous cell carcinoma), high exposure to arsenic, or previous personal history of skin cancer.

Things to Look Out For

BCC can develop anywhere on the body, especially in areas directly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and areas with previous skin injury. Therefore, if you’re at an increased risk, it’s important to examine yourself from head to toe on a monthly basis. You should be on the lookout for any new or evolving lesions that don’t heal. Other things to look for are red patchy areas, irritated areas, shiny nodules or pink growths, or scar-like areas with poorly defined borders.

BCC lesions may not always be obvious to the untrained eye, so promptly make an appointment to see a dermatologist for evaluationif you spot something that is even mildly concerning. In general, annual skin exams with a dermatologist is recommended. This is especially important for adults who have risk factors for skin cancer, such as lots of sun exposure or a history of skin cancers or precancers.

Diagnosis

The first step of diagnosing a BCC will consist of obtaining a thorough history about your health and medical history, as well as a comprehensive examination of your skin. If BCC is suspected, your doctor will obtain a biopsy of the suspicious tissue that will be sent to the laboratory to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on many factors including BCC location, size, staging, your age, and condition of your health. Treatment options for BCC lesions include curettage & electrodesiccation, excisional surgery, Mohs surgery, topical treatments, and/or radiation therapy. For more advanced BCC, options include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. Dr. Shive can review the risks and benefits of each approach and help you decide which one is best for you.