According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer worldwide. Everyone is at risk, but if you have a fair complexion with blue, green or gray eyes, your risk increases. The main cause of basal cell carcinoma is sun exposure with the majority of basal cell carcinomas found on sun-exposed skin. Risk is also increased with exposure to artificial UV sources such as tanning booths, exposure to certain chemicals (e.g., arsenic, coal, tar), a reduced immune system, wounds that fail to heal, scars, and if you have had a past history of radiation. Basal cell carcinoma rarely results in death as it rarely spreads, but if not diagnosed early, it may lead to severe disfigurement. It is therefore important to recognize any symptoms and have them checked by a physician.
Non-healing sore
If you have a sore on your skin that fails to heal, or heals and then breaks open again, it needs to be checked by a physician. Basal cell carcinomas sometimes ooze and crust over, and then start bleeding again.
Red patch
Any newly irritated area particularly on your face, chest or arms should be checked, as often, basal cell carcinomas can resemble non-cancerous conditions like psoriasis or eczema. The area may crust over and may be itchy or painful, although often, there is no discomfort, but the area remains red and irritated.
Nodule or growth
You may have a nodule or lump that is pearly in appearance and may be translucent. A basal cell carcinoma lump may be pink, red or white, and may tan when exposed to the sun; you may think it is a new mole. It may appear as a growth or lump with an enlarged border and a sunken center that can also have a crust. As this lump grows, you may notice new blood vessels growing within it.
Scar-like mark
A basal cell carcinoma sometimes looks like a scar. it may be waxy in appearance or yellow or white. You may not notice an obvious border, and the skin may look pulled or tight.
