Basal Cell Carcinoma

3 min read·Last updated: 2026-01-29·Reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, FACMS

At a Glance

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer and the most frequently occurring of all cancers. It develops in the basal cells, which are found at the bottom of the epidermis and produce new skin cells as old ones die. In the United States alone, an estimated 3.6 million cases are diagnosed annually. BCCs typically grow slowly and rarely spread to other parts of the body, but if left untreated, they can grow deep into tissue, causing local destruction of skin, muscle, and bone. Early detection and treatment result in excellent outcomes.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, with approximately 3.6 million cases diagnosed annually in the U.S.[1]
BCCs arise from UV-induced DNA damage to basal cells in the epidermis[1]
Mohs surgery offers cure rates up to 99% for primary basal cell carcinomas[1]
BCC rarely spreads to distant sites but can cause significant local tissue destruction if untreated[2]

Symptoms

Pearly or waxy bump, often with visible blood vessels
Flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
Open sore that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and doesn't heal
Pink growth with elevated border and crusted center
Small translucent or shiny bump
Red patch that may itch or crust
Growth that bleeds easily from minor trauma

When to Seek Professional Care

Any new bump, growth, or sore that doesn't heal within a few weeks
A pimple-like growth that persists or recurs
A scar-like area appearing without prior injury
Any skin change that concerns you
Bleeding or oozing from a skin spot

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Causes

Cumulative UV radiation exposure from sun
UV exposure from tanning beds
DNA damage triggering uncontrolled basal cell growth
Severe sunburns, especially early in life
Chronic sun exposure over decades

How We Can Help

We offer a service to help manage this condition: Mohs Surgery.

Prognosis

Excellent prognosis when detected and treated early
Treatment success rates exceed 95% with appropriate care
Mohs surgery offers success rates up to 99% for primary tumors
Low risk of spreading to distant sites
Regular follow-up needed as new BCCs may develop
Patients with one BCC have increased risk of developing another

Frequently Asked Questions

What is basal cell carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, developing from the basal cells that produce new skin cells. It typically appears as a pearly bump, open sore, or scar-like area on sun-exposed skin. While it rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can grow deep and damage surrounding tissue if not treated.

What does basal cell carcinoma look like?

BCC can appear in several forms: a pearly or waxy bump often with visible blood vessels, a flat flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, an open sore that bleeds and doesn't heal, or a pink growth with a crusted center. It may look like a pimple that never goes away. Appearance varies between individuals.

When should I see a dermatologist about a suspicious spot?

See a dermatologist promptly if you notice any new bump or growth that doesn't heal within a few weeks, a sore that bleeds or crusts repeatedly, a pimple-like spot that persists, or any skin change that concerns you. Early detection leads to simpler treatment and excellent outcomes.

How is basal cell carcinoma treated?

Treatment options include Mohs surgery (highest cure rate), surgical excision, curettage and electrodesiccation, cryotherapy, and topical treatments for superficial cases. The best option depends on the tumor's size, location, and type. Most treatments are performed as outpatient procedures with local anesthesia.

Is basal cell carcinoma serious?

While BCC rarely spreads to distant organs, it should be treated promptly. If left untreated, it can grow deep into skin, muscle, and even bone, causing significant damage and disfigurement. When caught early, cure rates exceed 95% with appropriate treatment. Regular skin checks help ensure early detection.

How can I prevent basal cell carcinoma?

Protect your skin by using SPF 30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, seeking shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, and avoiding tanning beds. Perform monthly skin self-exams and see a dermatologist annually, especially if you have risk factors or a history of skin cancer.

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