Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer and the most common cancer overall. These appear as abnormal lesions or growths in the deepest layer of the skin.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology and the Skin Cancer Foundation, approximately two million new cases of basal cell carcinoma are diagnosed each year. It is the most common cancer in humans, and it is the most common skin cancer.
Risk factors for basal cell carcinoma include age, previous history of skin cancer, sun damage, history of sunburns, fair skin, blue eyes, blonde or red hair, and regular sun exposure.
Basal cell carcinomas are abnormal lesions or growths that appear in the deepest layer of the epidermis, known as the basal cell layer. They can often look like open sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps, or scars. A biopsy may be done to help confirm the diagnosis.
There are several different clinical types of basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Some of the most common are nodular BCC, superficial BCC, pigmented BCC and infiltrative BCC.
Basal cell carcinoma can be caused by chronic sun exposure, inherited gene defects and low immune systems.
Surgical excisions (including Mohs micrographic surgery) and electrodessication and curettage are the most common forms of treatment. Other treatment options for basal cell carcinoma include topical and oral based therapies.
