Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It is also the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States.
BCC develops when long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds damages the skin’s basal cells. It usually grows slowly but does not go away without treatment.
If left untreated, basal cell carcinoma can grow deeper into the skin and damage nearby tissue. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can still become disfiguring over time.
When found early, most basal cell carcinomas are highly treatable and often curable.
At Goodskin Dermatology in Portland, OR, our board-certified dermatologists diagnose and treat basal cell carcinoma using careful evaluation and personalized treatment plans.
What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in the basal cells of the skin, which are located in the deepest layer of the outer skin (epidermis).
It is caused primarily by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Over time, this exposure damages skin cell DNA and can lead to cancer development.
Does BCC Spread?
Basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other parts of the body. Because of this, it is considered less dangerous than other types of skin cancer.
However, it can still be serious if ignored because it may grow deeper into the skin and cause local tissue destruction, especially on the face or areas with repeated sun exposure.
Early treatment significantly reduces risk and improves outcomes. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It is also the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States.
BCC develops when long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds damages the skin’s basal cells. It usually grows slowly but does not go away without treatment.
If left untreated, basal cell carcinoma can grow deeper into the skin and damage nearby tissue. It rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can still become disfiguring over time.
When found early, most basal cell carcinomas are highly treatable and often curable.
At Goodskin Dermatology in Portland, OR, our board-certified dermatologists diagnose and treat basal cell carcinoma using careful evaluation and personalized treatment plans.
What Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Look Like?
Basal cell carcinoma can look different from person to person. It is often mistaken for a harmless skin spot that does not heal.
Common signs include:
- A pearly or shiny bump
- A pink, red or scaly patch
- A sore that does not heal or keeps returning
- A lesion that bleeds easily or crusts over
- A waxy or firm-looking growth
BCC most often appears on sun-exposed areas of the skin, especially the face and head.
BCC Subtypes And How They Differ
Basal cell carcinoma comes in a few types. Each type can look a little different on the skin.
Common types include:
- Nodular BCC (most common)
Appears as a shiny, pearly pink or red bump, often with visible blood vessels - Superficial BCC
Appears as a flat, thin, red or pink scaly patch or plaque. It is often misdiagnosed as eczema or psoriasis - Morpheaform BCC
Firm, scar-like or yellowish plaque that grow deeper into the skin tissue
Each subtype can behave differently, making prompt evaluation by a board-certified dermatologist important.
Where On The Body Does BCC Usually Appear?
Basal cell carcinoma often develops on the following areas:
- Face
- Nose
- Ears
- Scalp
- Neck
- Chest
- Shoulders
- Back
These areas are more vulnerable because they receive repeated or long-term exposure to the sun.
Risk Factors For Basal Cell Carcinoma
Several factors can increase the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. However, the biggest risk factor is cumulative sun exposure.
Common risk factors of BCC include:
- Fair skin, light eyes or light hair
- Personal or family history of actinic keratoses
- Personal or family history of BCC or another skin cancer
- Personal history of sunburns
- Long-term sun exposure or outdoor work
- Use of tanning beds
- Adults age 40 and over
- Weakened immune system
It is important to note that anyone can develop BCC, even those with darker skin tones or who use a broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen regularly.
How Is Basal Cell Carcinoma Diagnosed At Goodskin Dermatology?
Basal cell carcinoma is diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist through a careful skin exam.
During a Full-Body Skin Evaluation, your provider examines the skin for signs of BCC and evaluates overall sun damage.
Most BCCs can be diagnosed with a visual exam and dermoscopy. Dermoscopy is a handheld tool that allows for a closer, more detailed view of the skin.
If a lesion looks concerning, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is a quick procedure that removes a small sample of skin for lab testing.
At Goodskin Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists explain every step clearly, so you understand what’s happening and what comes next.
Treatment Options For Basal Cell Carcinoma At Goodskin Dermatology
Basal cell carcinoma treatment depends on the size, depth, subtype and location of the cancer.
At Goodskin Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists create personalized treatment plans to remove cancer while preserving healthy skin.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Mohs surgery is a precise procedure where very thin layers of skin are removed one at a time and checked under a microscope during the same visit.
This process continues until no cancer cells remain, helping ensure all of the basal cell carcinoma is removed.
Mohs surgery is often used for BCC on the face or in areas where preserving as much healthy skin as possible is important.
Excision
Excision removes the cancer along with a small margin of healthy skin to help ensure all cancer cells are removed.
This is often best for smaller or well-defined basal cell carcinomas.
Electrodesiccation And Curettage (ED&C)
ED&C is a treatment that removes skin cancer in two steps. First, your dermatologist gently scrapes away the cancer using a small, spoon-shaped tool called a curette. Then, a special electric device is used to treat the area and destroy any remaining cancer cells.
The area is numbed before treatment, so you stay comfortable. The process may be repeated during the same visit to help ensure the cancer is fully treated.
ED&C is often used for superficial or low-risk basal cell carcinomas.
Topical Medications And Photodynamic Therapy
Topical skin cancer treatments or photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be used for superficial basal cell carcinoma.
PDT uses a light-activated medication and a special light source to target abnormal cells.
Radiation And Oral Medications
In some cases, radiation therapy or oral medications may be used for advanced basal cell carcinoma. These options are typically reserved for cases where surgery is not appropriate.
Regular Medical Dermatology visits and skin checks can help detect new lesions early and support long-term skin health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is basal cell carcinoma dangerous?
No, BCC is usually not life-threatening. However, it can still cause damage if it is not treated.
What happens if basal cell carcinoma is left untreated?
It can grow deeper into the skin and damage nearby tissue. It may also become harder to treat.
How successful is treatment for basal cell carcinoma?
Most BCCs are highly treatable, especially when found early.
Will I need Mohs surgery for my BCC?
Some cases need Mohs surgery, especially on the face or sensitive areas. Your dermatologist will help decide the best option.
How often should I be screened after a BCC diagnosis?
If you have had BCC, regular skin checks are important because you have a higher chance of developing another skin cancer.
See A Dermatologist At Goodskin Dermatology
If you notice a sore, bump or skin spot that does not heal, it is important to have it evaluated promptly.
At Goodskin Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists provide expert diagnosis and treatment for basal cell carcinoma across Clackamas, Hillsboro, Troutdale and Beaverton at Cedar Hills Crossing.
