Summary
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is a skin cancer that begins when the DNA of basal cells is damaged or mutates. Basal cells are responsible for creating new skin cells. BCC makes up around 80% of all cases of skin cancer.
Like every cancer, BCC occurs when cells grow uncontrollably, potentially invading and destroying surrounding tissues. With BCC the growth typically remains localized to the skin, rarely spreading to other parts of the body.
The primary risk factor for BCC is exposure to UV light, which is found in tanning beds or from the sun. Avoid using tanning beds, and when spending time in the sun, protect your skin with sunscreen, clothing, shade, and avoiding peak sun hours.
Early detection is key. BCC is treatable when caught early but if left untreated BCC can cause serious harm, and in rare cases be fatal.
Who Is Most at Risk for BCC
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is most common in individuals over 50, though it can develop at any age. People with light skin are at a higher risk, especially those living in areas with intense sun exposure.
Frequent sunburns, particularly in childhood, can significantly increase the likelihood of developing BCC. Additionally, a family history of skin cancer may further elevate the risk.
Prevention and Early Detection
Given that BCC affects around 60,000 Canadians per year prevention and early detection are crucial:
- Sun Protection: Regularly use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, wear protective clothing, and avoid sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Skin Checks: Regularly examine your skin for new or changing spots or moles, and see a dermatologist annually or more frequently if you’re at high risk.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds are a significant risk factor for BCC and should be avoided. One use can increase the risk of skin cancer by over 50%
The choices we make will make a real impact on the risk we have to develop BCC.
Identifying BCC Skin Cancer
BCC looks different for everyone.
In lighter skin, BCC may appear as a pearly or flesh colored bump, with visible blood vessels on the surface. It might also present as a flat, scar-like lesion or a sore that heals and then reopens.
On darker skin tones, BCC can be harder to spot and may appear as a dark, shiny bump; or a patch of darkened, rough skin.
It is important to watch for any new or changing growths on the skin, especially those that bleed, ooze, or don’t heal, as these may be signs of skin cancers.
Caught early, skin cancers are often very easy to treat, but left to grow they can cause serious damage or even death.
Schedule an annual full body skin check with a dermatologist to catch any cancers early.
If you notice any new spots on your body or moles that are changing, your doctor can refer you to SimcoDerm and our dermatologists will diagnose and treat you.
We have rapid skin cancer turnaround due to our dedicated surgical team. Most of the time you will have a resolution months faster than if you went to a hospital or other dermatology team.
Visit our skin cancer screening page.
Treating BCC
Most cases of BCC are treated with minor surgical procedures performed right in the dermatologist’s office. The goal is to remove the cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
The most common treatment is surgical excision, where the dermatologist cuts out the cancer along with a margin of healthy skin.
For smaller or superficial cases non-surgical treatments may be considered. Topical medications that stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells or destroy them directly can work well. In some cases, radiation therapy might be recommended, especially when surgery isn’t an option.
Although rare, advanced BCC that spreads deeper into the skin or other tissues may require more intensive treatments, such as targeted drug therapy or immunotherapy. These approaches are used when surgery alone isn’t enough.
Types of BCC Skin Cancer
There are more than 26 different subtypes of BCC, but most consist of just four common types. Most commonly BCC grows primarily in places that are exposed to the sun.
Nodular BCC
Nodular BCC often presents as a rounded, elevated bump that can be pink, red, or pearly white in color. It may also show prominent blood vessels on its surface, a condition known as telangiectasia, where small, dilated blood vessels become visible near the skin’s surface.
Superficial Spreading BCC
Superficial Spreading BCC often appears as a flat or slightly raised, reddish patch that can be scaly or rough in texture. These lesions tend to grow more around the trunk area, and over time can expand significantly.
Sclerosing BCC
Sclerosing BCC also known as morpheaform BCC, is less common and presents as a firm, flat, or slightly indented scar-like area. It may be whitish or skin-colored and tends to spread along the skin’s surface, making it harder to detect early. This type is known for its aggressive nature and deeper tissue invasion.
Pigmented BCC
Pigmented BCC resembles nodular BCC but includes brown, blue, or black pigmentation within the lesion. It can be mistaken for melanoma due to its color, though it retains the smooth and shiny characteristics typical of BCCs.
Modern and Future Research into BCC
Over the last decade there has been significant advancement in our understanding of how BCC cancer progresses and how we can treat it.
Researchers have discovered the mechanisms that cause BCC and have been developing and testing new ways to control this. These new methods include immunotherapies and photodynamic therapies which provide more effective options when surgery cannot be done.
Greater awareness of the causes of BCC such as exposure to UV light have resulted in a greater effort to promote preventative measures.
Combination therapies are advancing Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) treatment, with dermatologists targeting cancer pathways using inhibitors, radiation, and immunotherapy.
Personalized medicine is the focus, tailoring treatments to individual cases, often proving more effective than standard care. Ongoing research will make these approaches more accessible and efficient.
AI is also aiding BCC detection, helping dermatologists diagnose lesions more accurately and quickly. Plus, new drug delivery systems like nanotechnology and microneedles offer better control over side effects and treatment outcomes
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