Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) –

What is BCC?

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of cancer worldwide.  In the vast majority of cases, it is thought to be caused by exposure to the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun.  Basal cell cancer does not usually metastasize or travel in the bloodstream; rather it infiltrates the surrounding area destroying tissue.  For this reason, basal cell cancer should be treated promptly by your dermatologist with dermatologic surgical techniques.

What does it look like?

Basal cell cancer most often appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, chest, back and legs.  These tumors can have several different forms.  The most common appearance of basal cell cancer is that of a small dome-shaped bump that has a pearly white color.  Blood vessels may be seen on the surface.  Basal cell cancer can also appear as a pimple-like growth that heals, only to come back again and again.  A less common form called morpheaform, looks like a smooth white or yellowish waxy scar.  A very common sign of basal cell cancer is a sore that bleeds and heals up, only to recur again.

What will the dermatologist do if they think I have a BCC?

After the dermatologist examines the growth, they will decide whether or not to perform a biopsy.  A biopsy is a simple procedure done in the office under local anesthesia.  The dermatologist will first inject a small amount of anesthesia to numb the area.  Then the dermatologist will remove a small sample of the growth or use a small device to do a “punch” biopsy.  A bandage will then be placed on the wound and you will receive instructions on how to care for the wound.  The area will heal over five to seven days.  The doctor’s office will call you or have you call for your results within a short period of time.  If you have a basal cell cancer, the dermatologist will discuss the options for having the cancer removed.

Prevention

Because basal cell cancer is caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun in the vast majority of cases, proper sun protection may help to prevent the development of further basal cell cancers.  Because 85% of lifetime sun exposure is acquired in childhood by age 18, careful sun protection in children may effectively prevent basal cell cancer later in life.  Follow these simple steps from your dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon:

1. Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or greater while outdoors.  Apply at least 20 minutes prior to sun exposure for maximum sun protection.
2. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sun protective clothing.
3. Avoid the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
4. Apply sunscreen every 1 ½ hours if you are active outdoors.  Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection.

Ask for a brochure if you are interested in more information on this type of skin cancer.