Basal Cell Carcinoma
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
is a common skin cancer that begins in the top layer of the skin. BCC grows slowly and rarely spreads. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight or tanning beds increases your risk for BCC. Multiple sunburns or a lot of UV exposure when you were a child also increases the risk. Your risk is also higher if you are over 40 years, have light skin, or have other skin cancers or past radiation treatment.
Common signs of BCC:
BCC usually forms on skin that has been exposed to the sun. Tumors on the head, ears, nose, and neck are common. Most tumors are not painful. The following are common signs of a BCC:
- Shiny, waxy, pale or pink bumps or growths that may have blood vessels on the surface
- Red, scaly patches
- Open sores that may bleed and do not heal
 |
Call your doctor or dermatologist if:
- You have a fever.
- You have a sore that has not healed within 2 months.
- You see new growths on your skin.
- The size, shape, or color of a mole or freckle has changed.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Prevent another BCC:
 |
- Do a body check 1 time each month. Look for new growths or sores. Check for changes in the size, shape, or color of your moles and freckles. Look for sores that do not heal. Use a mirror to check places that are hard to see. Ask family members or friends to help.
- Protect your skin from UV light. Avoid the sun between 10 am and 4 pm, when the rays are strongest. If you are outside, apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more every 2 hours. Do this even on cloudy days. Wear pants and long sleeves to cover your body. Hats with a wide brim can protect your face, head, and neck. Wear sunglasses that block 99% of UV rays. Avoid tanning beds.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Follow up with your doctor or dermatologist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits. Ask your healthcare provider how often you need to be checked.
For support and more information:
- American Cancer Society
250 Williams Street
Atlanta , GA 30303
Phone: 1- 800 - 227-2345
Web Address: http://www.cancer.org
- The Skin Cancer Foundation
149 Madison Avenue, Suite 901
New York , NY 10016
Phone: 1- 212 - 725-5176
Web Address: www.skincancer.org
© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Learn more about Basal Cell Carcinoma
Treatment options
Care guides
Symptoms and treatments
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.