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Todd Minars, M.D.
Todd Minars, M.D.

Hollywood, FL

Basal Cell Carcinoma: Basics

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer. It is the most common form of any cancer in the U.S., and accounts for 80% of all skin cancers. It appears on areas of the body that have had the most sun exposure. This includes the face, ears, scalp, back of the neck, and back of the arms and hands. Learn more about basal cell carcinoma from Minars Dermatology.

Basal cell carcinoma is relatively easy to detect. If it is found early, treatment is simple and successful. However, if left untreated, the lesion can cause a significant amount of damaged to local tissues. In rare cases, basal cell carcinoma can spread beyond the original lesion, making treatment much more difficult.

Here are a few examples of basal cell carcinomas:

Basal Cell Carcinoma    Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma: Types

  1. Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma (sBCC): This type of basal cell carcinoma is usually seen on the trunk or extremities. It appears as a reddish spot or patch with a fine scale on the top. It can appear like a small patch of psoriasis. It can occasionally appear with a small erosion on the surface.
  2. Nodular Basal Cell Carcinoma: This is the most frequent type of basal cell carcinoma. It appears as a waxy or translucent nodule that may have fine blood vessels (capillaries) on its surface. The center may ulcerate, creating a sore that never completely heals. They may occasionally be pigmented like a mole (nevi).
  3. Sclerosing or morpheaform Basal Cell Carcinoma: This type of basal cell carcinoma appears like a scar with poorly defined (blurry) borders. It is usually flat with a thinning of the skin.

Learn about treatment options for basal cell carcinoma.

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