Basal Cell Carcinoma
Understanding the signs, risks, and treatments for basal cell carcinoma with trusted skin cancer experts right here in the Carolinas.
What is Basal Cell Carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer in the United States, with over four million cases diagnosed each year. While it is considered a non-aggressive type of skin cancer that rarely spreads to other parts of the body, it can grow deeper into the skin and damage surrounding tissue if left untreated.
Most often caused by prolonged sun exposure, this slow-growing cancer typically appears on the face, ears, neck, or arms.
At Waccamaw Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in basal cell carcinoma treatment, offering advanced options to remove cancer while preserving healthy skin. If you notice a suspicious spot, early diagnosis is key—don’t wait to seek care.
FAQ
Symptoms
Basal cell carcinoma most commonly develops in locations on the body exposed to the sun; however, it can also develop in sun-hidden locations. Basal cell carcinoma presents itself as a change in the skin that has one of the following attributes:
- A brown, blue, or black lesion (the lesion can also have dark spots with a raised, translucent border)
- A pearly white, pink, or skin-colored bump with a translucent cover (you should be able to see inside the surface a bit)
- A flat, scaly, red patch with a raised edge
- A white, waxy, or scar-like lesion (without a defined border)
On occasion, these spots can ooze, crust, bleed, or itch. For an in-depth explanation of basal cell carcinoma warning sides, please carefully review the guide provided by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Unfortunately, basal cell carcinoma is hard to spot without a medical professional’s help. It can appear differently on each individual and often looks like other skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema. To determine if you have basal cell carcinoma, it is important that you seek a doctor for an examination.Â
Causes
Basal cell carcinoma occurs when a basal cell in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis) develops a mutation in its DNA. This mutation causes the cell to grow and divide uncontrollably, eventually forming a cancerous tumor.
While the exact reason for this mutation isn’t always known, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing basal cell carcinoma:
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Excessive sun exposure
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Indoor tanning
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A history of skin injuries or burns
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Previous radiation therapy
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A weakened immune system
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Aging
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Fair skin that burns easily
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Personal or family history of skin cancer
Understanding your risk can help with early detection and prevention. If you’re concerned about a spot on your skin, contact Waccamaw Dermatology for an evaluation and personalized basal cell carcinoma treatment plan.
Treatments
If you’ve been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, there are several effective treatment options available based on the size, location, and depth of the tumor. Your dermatologist will recommend the best approach for your individual needs.
Common basal cell carcinoma treatment options include:
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Surgical excision – removal of the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue
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Mohs surgery – a precise, layer-by-layer removal technique ideal for delicate or high-risk areas
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Curettage & electrodessication (C&E) – scraping the lesion and cauterizing the area
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Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT) – a non-invasive option for select cases
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Topical medications – prescription creams for certain low-risk tumors
At Waccamaw Dermatology, our experienced providers are committed to delivering the highest standard of care. We’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan and help restore your skin’s health with confidence and compassion.
Board-Certified Dermatologists
Our board-certified dermatologists, skilled surgeons, expert nurse practitioners, physician assistants, adept laser technicians and more are dedicated to making your health our top priority. The Waccamaw Dermatology team will provide a basal cell carcinoma treatment that will that removes cancer effectively while preserving as much healthy skin as possible. Check out any of our convenient locations today!
