Basal Cell Carcinoma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and usually appears as a small pink, red, or skin-colored lump that grows slowly over time. It often develops on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, and shoulders.

Basal cell carcinoma has a high chance of being cured, especially when it is diagnosed early. Treatment typically involves procedures such as surgery, cryotherapy, or radiation therapy to remove or destroy the cancer cells.

Basal cell carcinoma is more common after age 40 and in people with fair skin and frequent sun exposure, but it can affect any skin tone. Common signs include a sore that does not heal, a growing lump, or changes in the skin, making early recognition important.

Main symptoms

The main signs and symptoms of basal cell carcinoma are:

• Small, shiny lump on the skin that may be pink, red, or skin-colored

• A sore that does not heal and may bleed

• Small blood vessels in the nodule or lump

• Scaling at the site of the lesion

• A spot on the skin that may be white, pink, red, brown, black, or skin-colored

• A small lump that grows over time

The areas where basal cell carcinoma most commonly appears include the nose, cheeks, forehead, eyelids, smile lines, shoulders, back, or chest.

Confirming a diagnosis

The diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma is made by a dermatologist through an evaluation of the skin, symptoms, and the person’s health history.

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor may also order tests such as a skin biopsy, confocal microscopy, optical coherence tomography, and high-frequency ultrasound.

Main types

Based on their characteristics, the types of basal cell carcinoma include:

1. Nodular basal cell carcinoma

Nodular basal cell carcinoma is the most common type. It mainly affects the head or neck and usually appears as a small red or skin-colored bump, with or without a sore.

2. Superficial basal cell carcinoma

Superficial basal cell carcinoma is the second most common type. It mainly affects areas such as the back and trunk and is characterized by a thin red patch or plaque that may have fine scaling.

3. Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma

Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma is the most aggressive type and usually occurs in older adults, especially on the head and neck.

This type of carcinoma is characterized by white plaques and visible small blood vessels in the lesion.

4. Pigmented basal cell carcinoma

Pigmented basal cell carcinoma is characterized by darker spots in the lesions due to increased pigmentation. It is a variant that can occur in different types of basal cell carcinoma, especially nodular and superficial forms.

Possible causes

The main cause of basal cell carcinoma is excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. According to the American Cancer Society, UV exposure from sunlight and indoor tanning is a major risk factor for basal and squamous cell skin cancers.

In addition, some factors that increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma include:

• Lighter skin tone

• Previous skin cancer

• Naturally blond or red hair

• Blue or green eyes

• Previous sunburns

• Weakened immune system

• Outdoor work, such as farming, postal work, welding, or construction

Basal cell carcinoma happens when cells in the outer layer of the skin undergo genetic changes and multiply uncontrollably, leading to lesions on the body.

Basal cell carcinoma treatment

Treatments for basal cell carcinoma include:

1. Surgery

Excisional surgery, Mohs surgery, and curettage with electrodesiccation are the most recommended treatments for removing basal cell carcinoma.

According to the American Cancer Society, treatment for basal cell carcinoma can vary based on factors such as tumor size, location, and whether it has spread.

2. Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a treatment that freezes a superficial skin lesion using liquid nitrogen. It may be recommended for lesions on the trunk and limbs.

3. Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy sessions may be recommended by the doctor to complement surgical treatment or when surgery is not recommended.

Prevention measures

Some tips to help prevent basal cell carcinoma include:

• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30.

• Avoid sun exposure during times when ultraviolet rays are strongest.

• Wear hats and clothing that cover the body.

• Do not use indoor tanning beds.

In addition, it is also important to protect children and babies by applying age-appropriate sunscreen, using shade or umbrellas, and having them wear hats.