Basal cell carcinoma is also known as BCC or rodent ulcer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer in humans. Luckily, it is very rarely a threat to life.

BCC typically affects adults of fair complexion who have had a lot of sun exposure, or repeated episodes of sunburn. Although more common in the elderly, sun-loving Californians frequently develop them in their early 40s and sometimes younger. The tendency to develop BCC may be inherited. BCCs can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters in diameter. They usually grow slowly over months or years.

Types of basal cell carcinoma

• Nodular BCC , also known as cystic BCC, is often found on the face. It presents as a small translucent growth, often with rolled edges. It may be pigmented (brown), or there may be small blood vessels on the surface. It may become an open sore (rodent ulcer), or bleed spontaneously then seem to heal over. Sometimes BCCs are difficult to distinguish from melanoma.
• Superficial BCCs are often multiple, most often on the upper trunk or shoulders. The patches are slowly growing, shiny pink or red and slightly scaly. They bleed easily.
• Morphoeic BCC, also known as sclerosing BCC, is the most difficult to diagnose, and is prone to recur after apparently adequate surgery. They look like a skin-colored, rather waxy, thickened scar.

Treatment
The treatment for a BCC depends on its type, size and location, the number to be treated, and the preference or expertise of the doctor. Possibilities include:

• Excision. The lesion is cut out and the skin stitched up.
• Shave, curettage & cautery (and other types of minor surgery). Many skin cancers can be successfully removed by removing just the top layers of the skin. The wound usually heals rapidly without needing stitches.
• MOHS surgery. Patients with larger lesions or one in a difficult site may be referred to a MOHS surgeon or a plastic surgeon, who may create a flap or graft to repair the defect after excision.
• Radiotherapy (X-ray treatment). This can be used for some BCCs, usually on the face.
• Immune modulators. Imiquimod cream and interferon injections may be used to remove superficial basal cell carcinomas with minimal scarring.

Whatever the chosen treatment, BCC can nearly always be cured. BCCs occasionally come back at the same site (recur), but they can be treated again safely.

Those who have had one BCC are at increased risk of developing another one within the next year or so. Early detection means easier treatment, and less scarring.
Protect your skin from the sun at all times.

Arrange a complete skin examination from time to time.

Ask your dermatologist or Primary Care Provider to check any persisting or growing lumps or sores.