Basal cell carcinoma

A type of skin cancer, also known as a rodent ulcer or BCC, that occurs most commonly on the face or neck. It starts as a small, flat nodule and grows slowly, eventually forming a shallow ulcer with raised pearly edges. Basal cell carcinoma is caused by skin damage from the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. Fair-skinned people over 50 are the most commonly affected; dark and black-skinned people are protected by the larger amount of the skin pigment melanin. The risk is reduced by avoiding overexposure to strong sunlight, using sunscreens, and wearing protective clothing and sun hats. Without treatment, the carcinoma gradually invades and destroys surrounding tissues but virtually never spreads to other parts of the body. Treatment is usually with surgery (or in some cases radiotherapy) and is often completely successful. Plastic surgery may also be needed, however, depending on the size and site of the tumour. People who have had a basal cell carcinoma may develop new tumours and should be alert to any changes in their skin. (See also melanoma, malignant; squamous cell carcinoma; sunlight, adverse effects of.)