Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is a skin cancer of the cells of the outer layer of the skin known as basal cells. The main cause is cause is sun exposure, although other factors can play a role such your genetic inheritance. 

They often appear as a small growth on the skin that can look pearly, which scabbing, crusting or bleeding.  At times, the area can appear to be healing itself, only to scab, crust or bleed again. 

This type of skin cancer is often called a low risk cancer, as there is little chance of this type of skin cancer spreading to other body sites. 

Special sites on the body, such as the ear, scalp, nose or lip need to be treated more urgently as these are locations from which spread is more common. 

Subtypes

There are several common subtypes, which may affect the choice of treatment.

1. Nodular

2. Superficial

3. Infiltrative / morphoeic

4. Basi-squamous

5. Other rarer types

Treatment

Your dermatologist, an expert in the treatment of skin cancer, will guide you to the best treatment for your needs - a combination of the skin cancer, the location on your body and your general health.

Common treatments

1. Mohs micrographic surgery

2. Surgical excision

3. Curettage and electrodessication

4. Topical (cream) therapy - imiquimod or 5-FU

5. Cryotherapy

6. Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

Useful skin cancer links: 

Book an appointment 

Skin55 Skin cancer page

Skin 55 Skin surgery page

British Association of Dermatologists BCC leaflet