Basal cell carcinoma

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Definition

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer. It's also the most easily treated and the least likely to spread. But though basal cell carcinomas are rarely fatal, they can cause extensive damage to surrounding tissue and bone if they're not removed.

Because basal cell carcinomas often take decades to develop, they once occurred almost exclusively in older adults. In recent years, though, the tumors have become much more common in younger people and are increasing every year among adults of all ages.

Basal cell carcinomas also have a high recurrence rate; if you've had one basal cell carcinoma, you have a good chance of developing another within five years. The risk is even greater if you've been diagnosed with two or more basal cell carcinomas or the cancer occurred on the trunk of your body.

Most basal cell carcinomas are caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. Avoiding the sun as much as possible is the best protection. Sunscreen is an important part of a sun-safety program, but by itself can't prevent basal cell carcinoma or other forms of skin cancer.

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Symptoms