What is Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It arises from abnormal growth of basal cells, which are found in the outer layer of your skin. BCC typically develops on sun-exposed areas like the face, head, neck, and arms. While BCC rarely spreads, it can grow and cause damage if left untreated. The good news is, BCC is highly treatable when caught early.
Types and Common Signs of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Nodular
The most common type, appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels. It may have a central dip or ulceration.
Superficial
Shows up as a flat, scaly, reddish patch, sometimes with a thin, raised border. It often happens on the trunk.
Morpheaform (Sclerosing)
Can look like a white or yellowish, scar-like area with unclear borders. This type can grow deeper and wider under the skin.
Pigmented
Similar in look to the nodular type but with brown or black pigment. It can sometimes be mistaken for melanoma.
Infiltrative
Made up of small strands and nests of basal cells that grow between collagen fibers in the skin. It can be more aggressive and harder to treat.
Micronodular
Made up of multiple small nodules of basal cells. It has a higher risk of coming back.
Basosquamous
A less common and more aggressive type that has features of both basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma.
Treatment Options for Basal Cell Carcinoma
Untreated basal cell carcinoma can grow larger, bleed, and destroy the surrounding tissue.
Treatment depends on size, location, type of basal cell, and patient preference.
Nodular, infiltrative, morpheaform, sclerosing, and basosquamous BCCs are usually treated with a surgical excision where, besides the cancerous tissue, a 3-5 mm margin of healthy tissue is also removed to help prevent any return in the future. Mohs Micrographic Surgery remains a very effective option, especially when BCC affects high-risk areas like skin around the face including the eyes, ears, lips and nose.
Small superficial BCCs can be treated using superficial skin surgery, including highly successful electrosurgery or cryotherapy. If surgical treatment is not appropriate in one’s case, other options can be used like radiotherapy, photodynamic therapy or topical immune response modifiers like imiquimod (Aldara®) or 5-fluorouracil (Efudex®, Tolak®).
Our team at PS Dermatology and Surgery will closely examine your case and find the most beneficial treatment option for you.
