What is a Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)?

A basal cell carcinoma, also called basal cell skin cancer, starts in the basal cell layer, the lower part of the skin’s epidermis. 

How does a Basal Cell Carcinoma Form?

It starts in the top layer of skin (the epidermis), and is often related to sun exposure. These cancers are commonly found on the face, head, and neck. 

Cancer starts when cells in the body begin to grow out of control. Cells in nearly any part of the body can become cancer cells. Basal cell carcinoma starts in the lower part called the basal cell layer. 

These cells constantly divide to form new cells to replace the cells that wear off the skin’s surface. 

How Common is a Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed type of skin cancer. 

The number of reported cases in the U.S. has steadily increased and according to skincancer.org, with an estimated 3.6 million Americans are diagnosed with BCC each year. 

What does a Basal Cell Carcinoma Growth Look Like?

Not all growths look alike, that is why it is important to have frequent visits to your provider to check for suspicious spots or growths. 

Basal cell carcinomas may appear to have: 

  • Open sores 
  • Red patch 
  • Pink growths 
  • Shiny bumps 
  • Scars 
  • Growths 
  • Slightly elevated 
  • Rolled edges 
  • A central indentation 
  • May ooze, crust, itch, or bleed 

Although BCC is most common in people who have fair skin, people of all colors get this skin cancer. 

Why is it Important to get a Basal Cell Carcinoma Examined?

Although these types of growths rarely spread beyond the original tumor site, the legions can grow and become disfiguring and dangerous. 

Untreated BCCs can: 

  • Become locally invasive 
  • Grow wide and deep into the skin 
  • Destroy skin, tissue, and bone 
  • More likely to recur 

It is very rare that BCC can become life-threatening or spread to other parts of the body, but there are some instances. It is always best to get something examined and looked at to avoid more serious complications. 

Where is Basal Cell Carcinoma Found?

These cancers are most often found in areas exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck, and arms, but they also can occur elsewhere. They are very common but are also usually very treatable. 

They can look very different from one patient to the other but usually change over time.