Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, making up around 70–80% of all non-melanoma skin cancers. It begins in the basal cells, which are located in the deepest layer of the epidermis (the top layer of skin). BCC grows slowly, rarely spreads (metastasizes) to other parts of the body, and is highly treatable—especially when caught early.
BCC is mainly caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, which damages the DNA in skin cells over time. It most often appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, scalp, and shoulders, though it can occur anywhere on the body.
What It Does to the Skin
- Forms abnormal growths in the basal cell layer due to DNA mutations caused by UV exposure.
- Appears most often on sun-exposed skin, particularly in fair-skinned individuals or those with a history of sunburns or tanning.
- Grows slowly, often over months or years, but can become locally invasive if left untreated.
- Can damage surrounding tissue, including skin, cartilage, and even bone if it grows deeply.
Common signs include:
- A pearly or waxy bump
- A flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
- A sore that doesn’t heal or keeps returning
- A pink, slightly raised growth with a rolled edge and central indentation
- Visible blood vessels on or near the lesion
Safety & Toxicology / Medical Considerations
- Highly treatable with a very high cure rate when detected early.
- Diagnosis is confirmed by a skin biopsy — a small sample of tissue examined under a microscope.
Treatment options include:
- Surgical removal (excision or Mohs surgery)
- Cryotherapy (freezing the lesion)
- Topical medications (like imiquimod or fluorouracil for superficial BCCs)
- Photodynamic therapy
- Radiation therapy (in specific cases)
Follow-up is important: Individuals who’ve had BCC are at increased risk of developing it again, or other forms of skin cancer, so regular skin checks are recommended.
Prevention includes:
- Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Wearing protective clothing and avoiding peak sun hours
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Performing regular skin self-checks and seeing a dermatologist for suspicious changes
Basal Cell Carcinoma is the most common—but also one of the most curable—types of skin cancer. It develops due to accumulated sun damage and typically appears as a persistent spot, bump, or sore. With early detection and proper treatment, most people recover fully without serious complications. Prevention and monitoring are key to reducing long-term risk.