Basal cell carcinoma is the most common of all skin cancers and it usually develops on sun exposed areas of the skin. Skin cancers are easily treatable when caught early, and they sometimes remain dormant for a long period of time before spreading. However, they may slowly destroy surrounding tissue, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library. When skin cancers start to spread they can cause severe and sometimes lethal damage. Basal cell carcinomas vary greatly in appearance, therefore a dermatologist should check any unusual growths you find.
Patches
Basal cell carcinomas may appear as flat, scaly, brown or flesh-colored patches on the back and chest, the Mayo Clinic says. Patches can grow to four to six inches over time in some cases. Reddish patches or irritated areas may develop on the face, chest, shoulders, arms or legs, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. They can feel itchy or painful or start to crust. However, some patches exhibit no discomfort.
Bumps
Shiny or waxy bumps that are mistaken for moles may be skin cancer. They may be pearly with colors that are often red, pink or white. Sometimes the bumps are tan, black or brown. The growths usually appear on the face, ears or neck. The bumps may bleed or become crusted or indented in the center the Mayo Clinic says.
Pink Growths
Pink growths that are slightly raised with a crusted depression in the center may indicate basal cell carcinoma, the Skin Cancer Foundation explains. The growths may grow larger and have tiny blood vessels developing on the surface.
Scars
White, yellow or waxy scars are sometimes difficult to notice, but should be suspicious if no injury has occurred in the area. The marks may have poorly defined borders and appear shiny and firm, the Skin Cancer Foundation notes. The scars may have small cancerous roots that are not visible on the surface.
Sores
Sores that bleed, ooze or crust may appear for a few weeks, the Skin Cancer Foundation says. The lesions may change into scabs, begin to heal and then open up and start bleeding again. Basal cell sores can also develop on the skin without healing. There may be a visible blood vessel in or near the sore. The lesions can fool some people into thinking the spots are regular sores instead of skin cancer.
