Skin cancer affects millions of Americans each year, with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) being the most frequently diagnosed type. While the term “carcinoma” can sound frightening, basal cell carcinoma is highly treatable when caught early and rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Keep reading to learn more about this common form of skin cancer and get answers to the most frequently asked questions about BCC.
What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma develops in the basal cells, which are found in the deepest layer of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). These cancerous cells grow slowly and typically appear in areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, shoulders, and back.
Unlike other forms of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma rarely metastasizes or spreads to other organs. However, if left untreated, BCC can continue to grow and potentially damage surrounding tissue, including bone and cartilage in advanced cases.
What Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Look Like?
Basal cell carcinoma can appear in several different forms, making it sometimes challenging to identify without professional evaluation. The most common appearance is a pearly or waxy bump that may have visible blood vessels running through it.
Other presentations include a flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, a bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns, or a pink growth with a slightly raised, rolled border and a crusted indentation in the center. Some basal cell carcinomas may also appear as red, scaly patches that resemble eczema or psoriasis.
Who Is at Risk for Developing Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, with sun exposure being the primary culprit. People with fair skin, light-colored eyes, and blonde or red hair are at higher risk due to having less melanin, which provides natural protection against UV radiation.
Age also plays a significant role, as BCC is more common in people over 40, though it can occur at any age. Other risk factors include a history of sunburns, regular use of tanning beds, exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, a weakened immune system, and a family history of skin cancer.
How Is Basal Cell Carcinoma Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma begins with a thorough skin examination by a dermatologist at the Center for Dermatology and Laser Surgery. During this exam, your provider will carefully inspect any suspicious lesions and may use a dermatoscope, a specialized magnifying device, to get a closer look at the skin’s surface.
If a suspicious lesion is identified, your dermatologist will perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. This involves removing a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope, which can definitively determine whether cancer cells are present and what type of skin cancer it is.
Dr. Amber Kyle, MD, at Golden State Dermatology, emphasizes the importance of early detection:
“Many patients worry about skin biopsies, but they’re actually quite simple procedures that provide crucial information about suspicious lesions. Early detection of basal cell carcinoma makes treatment much more straightforward and effective. When we catch BCC in its early stages, we can often remove it completely with minimal scarring and excellent cosmetic outcomes. Regular skin checks are invaluable for identifying these cancers before they become more problematic.”
What Treatment Options Are Available for Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Several effective treatment options exist for basal cell carcinoma, and the best approach depends on factors such as the size, location, and subtype of the cancer. The most common treatment is surgical excision, where the dermatologist removes the entire tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal.
Mohs micrographic surgery is another highly effective option, particularly for BCCs in cosmetically sensitive areas or those with aggressive features. This specialized technique involves removing the cancer layer by layer and examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells remain, resulting in the highest cure rate while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
What Is the Prognosis for Basal Cell Carcinoma?
The prognosis for basal cell carcinoma is excellent when treated promptly and appropriately. The cure rate for BCC is high when caught early and treated properly, making it one of the most treatable forms of cancer.
Even in cases where the cancer has grown larger or has aggressive features, effective treatment options are available. The key to maintaining this excellent prognosis is early detection through regular skin examinations and prompt treatment when BCC is identified.
Sylvia Ortega, PA-C, at Golden State Dermatology, shares her perspective on patient outcomes:
“One of the most rewarding aspects of treating basal cell carcinoma is being able to reassure patients about their excellent prognosis. While any cancer diagnosis can be scary, BCC is highly curable, especially when detected early. Most of our patients go on to live completely normal lives after treatment. I always encourage patients to view their BCC diagnosis as a wake-up call to be more vigilant about sun protection and regular skin checks, which helps prevent future occurrences.”
Can Basal Cell Carcinoma Come Back After Treatment?
While the cure rate for basal cell carcinoma is very high, there is a small chance of recurrence, particularly if the cancer wasn’t completely removed during initial treatment. The risk of recurrence is higher for larger tumors, those in certain locations like the face, and aggressive subtypes of BCC.
Regular follow-up appointments with your dermatologist are essential for monitoring the treated area and conducting full-body skin examinations. Most recurrences, if they occur, happen within the first two years after treatment, which is why frequent follow-up is particularly important during this period.
How Can I Prevent Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Prevention is the best strategy against basal cell carcinoma, and sun protection is the cornerstone of prevention. This includes wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, seeking shade during peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM), and wearing protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
Avoiding tanning beds is also crucial, as the UV radiation they emit significantly increases your risk of developing all types of skin cancer. Regular self-examinations of your skin can help you identify new or changing moles or lesions early, and annual professional skin examinations by a dermatologist can catch skin cancers in their earliest, most treatable stages.
What Should I Do If I Find a Suspicious Spot?
If you notice a new growth, a spot that has changed in appearance, or any lesion that bleeds, itches, or doesn’t heal, it’s important to have it evaluated by a dermatologist promptly. Don’t wait to see if it goes away on its own, as early detection and treatment of skin cancer always leads to better outcomes. During your appointment, be prepared to provide information about when you first noticed the spot, any changes you’ve observed, and any symptoms it may cause. Your dermatologist will perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate next steps based on their findings.
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