Basal Cell Carcinomas

Basal Cell Carcinomas, or BCCs, are the most common type of skin cancer. They are not as dangerous as melanomas or SCCs as they rarely spread or metastasize. However they do invade locally and can be difficult to remove if not treated promptly.

Types of BCC

There are different types of BCC. They vary in appearance and difficulty in removal.

• Superficial BCC's (sBCC's) are flat pink or red lesions that bleed or ulcerate easily. They slowly grow over months or years and are often mistaken for patches of dermatitis or eczema. They can be treated with excision or curettage. Large or difficult lesions can be treated with aldara cream.
• Nodular BCCs are raised lesions. Their edge is often shiny or pearly and is fairly well defined. As they enlarge they bleed easily and ulcerate in the center. Small nodular BCCs in low risk areas can be treated with curettage, otherwise excision is recommended.
• more aggressive BCCs can have a scar-like appearance and the edge is often difficult to see. They invade more deeply and are more difficult to remove fully. Excision with a generous margin is the only treatment option for aggressive BCCs.