Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) or basal cell skin cancer is the most common form of skin cancer. Usually, this form grows slowly on sun-exposed parts of the body such as face, neck, trunk or limbs. This skin tumour can look different, but the most common variant is a small pink shiny or pearly lump (nodular basal cell carcinoma). After a while, a crust begins to form in the centre and develops into an ulcer. There is an example photo of this variant at the bottom of this article.

How dangerous is BCC?

It is not an aggressive form of skin cancer, grows slowly and the chances of a BCC spreading to other organs are very small. It is recommended to remove the skin tumour in time, as it is more difficult to treat if a spot is large and the chances of a less attractive scar increase.

What does a BCC look like?

Basal cell carcinomas can look different and occur anywhere on the body. Usually, there are no symptoms such as pain or itching. Often, parts of the body that have been in the sun a lot occur. This form is usually recognised on the clinical picture and diagnosed through a biopsy (pathological examination of a piece of skin).

What forms of BCC are there?

• Nodular basal cell carcinoma: The most common form, it often manifests as bumps (a nodule) and grows slowly on the skin. Sometimes you can see tiny blood vessels with a pearly sheen. A non-healing wound or scab often appears over time.
• Superficial spreading basal cell carcinoma: This form is less common and lies superficially in the skin and is not noticeable, resembling eczema. They are often recognised by not responding to eczema ointment.
• Pigmented basal cell carcinoma: Dark-coloured skin tumour. This type is rare.
• Sclerosing basal cell carcinoma: This variant often resembles a scar with spiky ends.
• Micronodular basal cell carcinoma: This form is not often seen and it looks like a globule made up of very small bumps molded together.

Risk factors for BCC

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds. Frequent sunburns at a young age, fair skin, a large number of birthmarks, radiotherapy at a young age and occupations involving a lot of outdoor work also increase the risk. A rare hereditary condition, Basal Cell Naevus Syndrome (BCNS), also increases the risk of developing tumours.

What are the treatments for BCC?

Usually, this form of skin cancer is surgically removed under local anaesthesia. Further treatments include photodynamic therapy (BCC is treated with ointment that sensitises the cells to certain light), cryosurgery (freezing), creams that clear the tumour.

Example photo of a BCC