Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of cancer, causing approximately 90 percent of all skin cancers in the United States, according to the University of San Francisco Children's Hospital. Basal cells are small, round cells that make up the base of the outermost layer of skin. Basal cell carcinoma rarely spreads to other tissues or organs within the body. If detected early, it's easily treatable with surgery or other traditional forms of cancer treatment such as radiation therapy.
Abnormal New Skin Growth
One of the most common signs of basal cell carcinoma is the development of an abnormal new skin growth. This growth may appear on any region of the body but is most likely to occur in skin regions that are commonly exposed to the sun, such as the hands, face or legs. The characteristics of the new skin growth, such as size or color, may vary by person. An abnormal new skin growth caused by basal cell carcinoma may appear small and smooth or may be pale and form a raised lump. If you develop any new or abnormal skin growths on any region of your body, see a dermatologist for further evaluation.
Unhealed Skin Lesion
If you have basal cell carcinoma, you may develop a skin sore or lesion that doesn't readily heal. Such sores may begin to bleed if you pick at or injure the sore, according to the American Cancer Society. These skin lesions may also become dry, scaly or develop a crust or scab over the skin. Such lesions are generally reddish in color but may have a discolored region within the center of the sore that is black, blue or brown in color. Unhealed skin lesions caused by basal cell carcinoma may become tender to the touch or itchy but are not typically painful. Speak with your dermatologist for additional evaluation if you develop a skin lesion that doesn't heal normally.
Change in Existing Skin Growth
Certain people, especially those with an abundance of freckles or moles, may develop changes to the skin as a result of basal cell carcinoma. If you're fair-skinned or spend prolonged periods outdoors, check your skin regularly and note any changes. If you have an existing mole, the presence of basal cell carcinoma may cause the mole to change in size, texture or color. Abnormally shaped skin growths or rough patches of skin may also be signs of basal cell carcinoma.
