Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It originates in the basal cells, which are found in the lowest layer of the epidermis. BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but it can be locally invasive, causing damage to surrounding tissues if left untreated.

Who Gets It?

People with fair skin, light colored eyes and blonde hair
Those with excess sun exposure, especially without protection
Individuals with frequent sunburns or tanning bed use
Older adults, although it can develop at any age

What to Look For?

Pearly or waxy bump often with visible blood vessels
Color can be skin colored, pink or brown
Texture may be scaly or crusty
Lesion may ulcerate by developing a sore that does not heal
A lesion that develops on sun exposed areas

Moderate Stage BCC

The lesion grows larger than 2 to 5 cm in diameter, invading the deep layer of the skin and can become tender.

Advanced-Stage BCC

The tumor becomes greater than 7 cm and can have deep invasion of the skin, possibly affecting the muscle or bone.