Approximately one million people in the United States are diagnosed with basal cell skin cancer each year, making this the most common form of cancer, according to 2007 information provided by The Skin Cancer Foundation. People with fair skin and light-colored eyes who are frequently exposed to the sun are at the highest risk of developing early signs of basal cell skin cancer.
Persistent Skin Sore
Patients with basal cell skin cancer can develop a new, persistent skin sore that recurrently crusts over or bleeds, explains The Skin Cancer Foundation. Typically, the skin lesion remains open for several weeks before healing. Once the lesion heals, it frequently reopens and begins to ooze or bleed again. Patients who develop persistent skin sores or lesions that are slow to heal or bleed should seek further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
Skin Growth
A new skin growth can be an early sign of basal cell skin cancer. Patients may notice the appearance of a small bump on an area of skin frequently exposed to the sun, explain medical experts with the American Cancer Society. The new skin growth can appear pink or translucent and may develop along the scalp, face or neck. Patients with darker hair or skin may develop dark brown- or black-colored skin growths as an early sign of basal cell skin cancer. Certain patients can also develop a skin lesion that resembles a scar, warns MedlinePlus, a medical information website provided by the National Institutes of Health. Patients who develop any new skin growths or skin changes should have these skin changes examined by a doctor.
Skin Sensation Changes
Basal cell skin cancer can cause skin sensation changes in patients with this condition. These early signs can include sensations of tenderness or pain at the site of a new skin lesion. Certain patients may also notice that the affected skin region becomes unusually itchy, reports the American Cancer Society. Persistent or severe skin sensation changes should be discussed with a medical professional immediately to prevent further progression of the early signs of basal cell skin cancer.
Apparent Blood Vessels
The blood vessels that supply blood to the skin region affected by basal cell skin cancer may be more apparent or prominent as a sign of this condition, according to PDRHealth, a medical information website associated with the "Physicians' Desktop Reference." The blood vessels can appear close to the surface of the skin, causing pink or red discoloration of the affected region.
