Basal Cell Carcinoma

BCC is the most common form of cancer. There are approximately one million new cases in the United States each year. The sun and other forms of UV exposure are responsible for over 90% of all skin cancers. BCC occurs most frequently on the sun exposed areas of the body: face, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders and back. Common types:
  1. Nodular – most common smooth, waxy, pale or pearly, pimple, sometimes depressed or crusted in center, can bleed easy
  2. Superficial – red scaly or crusted patch often on back, shoulders, often confused with eczema or psoriasis
  3. Sclerosing- usually shiny, hard depressed patch with irregular borders, has root like extensions (making it more difficult to treat)
  4. Pigmented- similar to nodular form, but is brown or black in color, can be confused with melanoma
  5. Basosquamous – basal cell skin cancer and squamous cell skin cancer co-exist together, some believe it to be a more aggressive form
Treatment is based on the size, depth, and location. Prognosis is good, however, recurrence and new lesions are possible so regular follow up exams with your dermatology provider are important.

Talk to your doctor about Basal Cell Carcinoma.

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