Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently diagnosed form of skin cancer in the United States. This form of skin cancer begins in the basal layer of the epidermis, the zone where new skin cells are continuously created. Over years of repeated ultraviolet (UV) exposure—from natural sunlight or tanning beds—the DNA inside these cells can become damaged. Once enough injury accumulates, the cells may lose their normal growth controls and start dividing abnormally, giving rise to cancer.
Although basal cell carcinoma tends to progress slowly and seldom spreads beyond the skin, it should not be ignored. Left untreated, lesions can gradually expand, damaging nearby tissue and, in severe cases, invading deeper layers such as muscle or bone. For this reason, spotting the condition early and beginning treatment promptly is essential to avoid long-term complications.
Typical warning signs include sores that don’t heal, bumps with a shiny or pearly surface, red scaly patches, or growths with raised edges that may crust or bleed. Staying alert to these changes, scheduling routine skin checks, and practicing consistent sun protection are the best ways to catch problems before they advance.
A wide range of treatment options are available, tailored to the tumor’s location, depth, and size. Options include surgical removal, Mohs micrographic surgery, freezing (cryotherapy), topical medicines, and other targeted approaches. When addressed appropriately, the chances of cure are very high, and most patients achieve excellent results.
Signs & Symptoms
Identifying BCC early makes treatment more effective and helps prevent tissue damage.
- Typically presents as pearly, waxy, or pink bumps that may look like a pimple but do not heal. Some lesions may appear as flat, scaly patches or open sores.
- Most often found on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders, and arms.
- May bleed, scab repeatedly, or cause itching or mild discomfort.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone can develop BCC, but the risk increases with:
- Fair skin, light hair, or light-colored eyes
- Frequent or long-term sun exposure
- History of tanning bed use
- Family or personal history of skin cancer
- Age over 40 (though it can occur in younger adults as well)
Treatment Options
- Topical prescriptions – for superficial BCCs in certain cases
- Electrodessication & Curettage (ED&C) – scraping and cauterizing the lesion
- Surgical excision – removing the lesion with a margin of healthy tissue
- Mohs surgery – in cosmetically sensitive or high-risk areas such as the face, where precision is critical
What Happens if BCC Is Left Untreated?
While BCC is rarely life-threatening, untreated lesions will continue to grow and may invade deeper layers of skin, cartilage, or even bone. Advanced BCCs may cause disfigurement and require more extensive procedures. Rarely, advanced cases can spread to other parts of the body.
Prevention & Long-Term Care
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher).
- Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses when outdoors.
- Avoid tanning beds.
- Schedule regular skin exams with a dermatologist, especially if you’ve had BCC or significant sun exposure.
- Perform monthly self-checks and monitor for new or changing lesions.
If you notice any irregular bumps or lesions on the skin, schedule a skin evaluation with Dr. Proffer at ProDerm Skin & Surgery as soon as possible. Early detection affords the most flexibility in terms of developing a treatment plan.