BASAL CELL CARCINOMA
A common form of skin cancer.
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently diagnosed skin cancer. It develops from the abnormal growth of basal cells in the outer layer of the skin. BCC often grows slowly, and many cases are found during routine skin checks or when a new or changing spot is noticed.
What is basal cell carcinoma?
Basal cells are located at the bottom of the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. They create new skin cells and gradually push older cells toward the surface. Basal cell carcinoma develops when DNA in these cells becomes damaged—most often from long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This damage can lead to uncontrolled growth of basal cells and the formation of a skin cancer lesion.
While basal cell carcinoma typically grows slowly and is usually treatable, it can continue to enlarge and cause local tissue damage if not addressed. Early assessment and management help reduce the risk of complications.
How to spot basal cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma can look different from one person to another. It most often develops on areas that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, ears, neck, or upper body. While appearances vary, some features are commonly seen.
Signs & Symptoms
- Pink, red, or skin-coloured growths
- Shiny or pearly bumps
- Flat or slightly raised red patches
- Open sores that may not heal
- Lesions that crust, itch, ooze, or bleed
Understanding how dermoscopy helps assess basal cell carcinoma.
Dermoscopy is a tool that allows clinicians to view structures beneath the surface of the skin that are not visible to the naked eye. These features can help identify whether a lesion may be a basal cell carcinoma and, in some cases, provide clues about the subtype. Dermoscopy is used alongside clinical examination and, when needed, biopsy results to support an accurate diagnosis.
Basal cell carcinoma appears in several subtypes. Dermoscopy may show different patterns that help clinicians understand whether a lesion is more superficial or deeper.
Superficial basal cell carcinoma
Superficial BCCs may show certain patterns under dermoscopy, such as fine blood vessels, small erosions, or pink-white areas. These features can help clinicians distinguish superficial lesions from deeper or more nodular types.
Non-superficial basal cell carcinoma
Other forms of BCC may display different dermoscopic patterns, including branching (arborizing) vessels, areas of ulceration, or deeper pigmentation structures. These findings help guide diagnosis and treatment planning.
A “stellar pattern” is a dermoscopic feature sometimes seen in infiltrating basal cell carcinoma, where streak-like lines or vessels appear to extend outward into the surrounding skin.
Features of pigmented basal cell carcinoma.
Pigmentation can appear in many forms of basal cell carcinoma, and dermoscopy may show different patterns depending on the subtype. These features help clinicians assess whether a lesion appears more superficial or deeper within the skin.
Some dermoscopic features associated with pigmentation in certain superficial or infiltrating BCCs may include:
- maple‐leaf‐shaped areas
- concentric structures
- in‐focus dots
- spoke‐wheel areas
- brown look
Other dermoscopic patterns, such as bluish-grey globules or ovoid nests, reflect pigment located deeper in the skin. These may be associated with nodular basal cell carcinoma.
Who is most at risk?
Anyone can develop basal cell carcinoma, but certain factors can increase a person’s risk. These include:
- Frequent or long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or indoor tanning
- A personal history of skin cancer, including melanoma or squamous cell carcinoma
- Being over the age of 50
- Having fair skin
- Being male
- Areas of chronic skin injury, inflammation, or older scars
Preventing basal cell carcinoma.
Full body protection
Protect any skin that isn’t covered by clothing designed to block UV rays. Use a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply as directed.
Develop sun-safe habits
Limit time in direct sunlight during peak UV hours (usually 10 am to 4 pm). Seek shade when possible, and wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing.
Avoid tanning or extended UV exposure
Tanning beds and intentional tanning expose the skin to high levels of UV radiation and may increase the risk of skin cancer. There is no safe way to tan or “pre-tan” before travelling to sunny destinations.
Check your skin regularly
Monitor your skin for new or changing spots, freckles, or growths. If something becomes painful, bleeds, or grows over time, consider having it assessed by a clinician.
Get to know your treatment options.
Basal cell carcinoma can be managed in several ways. Treatments offered through our clinic may include:
- Curettage and electrodesiccation
- Excisional surgery
- Photodynamic therapy
- Topical treatments
Depending on the type and location of the cancer, other approaches (such as Mohs surgery or radiation therapy) may be recommended. Your clinician will discuss which options are appropriate for your situation.
Talk to our clinicians.
If you’re unsure about a spot or skin change, an assessment can help provide clarity. Our clinicians can review your concerns, offer guidance, and discuss possible management approaches.