Basal Cell Carcinoma

The most common type of skin cancer

Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Q. Wang, MDLast reviewed

What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. It begins in the basal cells, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis. BCCs rarely spread to other parts of the body but can cause significant local damage if left untreated.

BCC typically develops on sun-exposed areas, especially the head and neck. When detected early, BCC is highly treatable with excellent cure rates.

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Key Topics

Explore these essential topics to better understand your basal cell carcinoma diagnosis and treatment:

What does it mean if my biopsy says "basal cell carcinoma"?
Understanding your diagnosis and what happens next
How do doctors decide which type of BCC I have (superficial, nodular, morpheaform)?
Learn about the different subtypes and how they affect treatment
What are the treatment options for basal cell carcinoma and how do I choose?
Compare surgical and non-surgical options to find what's right for you
What should I expect during recovery after BCC surgery?
Timeline, wound care, and what's normal during healing
Can basal cell carcinoma come back after treatment — and how do I prevent it?
Understanding recurrence rates and prevention strategies
What is the risk of BCC spreading or becoming serious?
Learn about BCC behavior and when to be more vigilant
How do I check my skin for basal cell carcinoma — and when should I see a doctor?
Self-examination tips and warning signs that need attention
What lifestyle or skin-care habits help reduce the chance of another basal cell carcinoma?
Daily practices and prevention strategies for long-term skin health

Warning Signs

BCC can take several forms. Look for:

  • •A pearly or waxy bump on the face, ears, or neck
  • •A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion on the chest or back
  • •A bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns
  • •A pink growth with a slightly elevated rolled border and crusted indentation in the center
  • •Visible blood vessels on the growth

Risk Factors

  • •Chronic sun exposure throughout life
  • •Fair skin that freckles or burns easily
  • •Light-colored hair and eyes
  • •History of severe sunburns
  • •Use of tanning beds
  • •Older age (risk increases with age)
  • •Family or personal history of skin cancer
  • •Immune-suppressing medications

Prevention

  • •Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every day
  • •Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours outdoors
  • •Cover up with clothing, sunglasses, and hats
  • •Seek shade, especially during midday hours
  • •Avoid tanning beds entirely
  • •Check your skin monthly for changes
  • •Get professional skin exams regularly

Treatment Options

BCC is highly treatable, especially when caught early. Treatment options include:

  • •Mohs surgery: The gold standard for BCC, removing cancer layer by layer with immediate microscopic examination
  • •Excisional surgery: Cutting out the tumor and surrounding margin of healthy skin
  • •Curettage and electrodesiccation: Scraping the lesion and using heat to destroy remaining cells
  • •Cryotherapy: Freezing the tumor with liquid nitrogen
  • •Topical treatments: Prescription creams for superficial BCCs
  • •Photodynamic therapy: Light-activated treatment for certain BCCs
  • •Radiation therapy: For patients who cannot undergo surgery
  • •Targeted therapy: For advanced or metastatic cases

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