Basal Cell Skin Cancer

Condition Basics

What is basal cell skin cancer?

Basal cell skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer. It grows slowly and usually doesn't spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. But if this cancer isn't treated, it can damage the nearby skin and deeper tissues. When it's found and treated early, it is almost always cured.

What are the symptoms?

Skin cancer usually appears as a growth that changes in colour, shape, or size. This can be a sore that doesn't heal or a change in a mole or skin growth. Basal cell skin cancer usually occurs on the face, head, or trunk of the body.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your past health and do a physical examination. This will include taking a close look at the skin growth. The doctor may take a sample (biopsy) of the growth to test in a lab. A biopsy can confirm whether the cells are cancer.

How is basal cell skin cancer treated?

Your doctor will want to remove all of the cancer. The most common way is surgery to cut out the abnormal growth. Radiation may be done if surgery isn't an option. Other treatments include medicines that are put on the skin (topical therapies) and photodynamic therapy. After treatment, you will need regular checkups.