Introduction to Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Skin

Hello, my name is Dr. Thomas Knackstedt, and I’m a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Peak Skin Center. In this video, we’re going to talk about basal cell carcinoma. I’ll review the cause of basal cell carcinoma, its origin, and how it can present on the skin.

Each year, we see between two and a half and three million new cases of basal cell cancer diagnosed in the United States, making it the most common type of skin cancer—and the most common type of cancer overall.

Basal cell carcinoma is believed to arise from stem cells that reside in and around the hair follicles in the skin. The development of basal cell cancer is closely linked to sun exposure, particularly chronic sun exposure. This refers to cumulative, lifetime sun exposure rather than isolated sunburns, which are more commonly associated with melanoma.

People who work outdoors—such as those in construction or farming—or who spend a lot of time outdoors for recreation, like golfing or playing tennis, are at increased risk. Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and light eyes, as well as those with a personal or family history of basal cell skin cancer, are also at higher risk.

Basal cell cancers can occur almost anywhere on the body, but they are most commonly found on the head and neck, especially on the nose and ears.

Basal cell carcinoma can present in several ways, but it often appears as a small, raised red or white growth. Patients frequently report that these spots bleed or break down with minimal trauma—such as drying the area after showering—or notice blood on their pillowcase in the morning. These are classic signs of basal cell cancer.

Over time, a basal cell cancer can develop into an ulcer and may begin to bleed more frequently or become painful.

Unlike squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma, basal cell carcinoma is very unlikely to spread to other parts of the body. It rarely travels to lymph nodes or distant organs. However, it is still considered cancer because it represents uncontrolled cell growth. For that reason, we treat basal cell cancers to prevent them from growing locally, becoming more aggressive, and invading deeper tissues such as muscle, cartilage, or bone.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer, consult a board-certified dermatologist at Peak Skin Center. Our skilled team, regarded as top dermatologists in Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina, is committed to providing effective, compassionate treatment options tailored to your needs. With offices across the region, we make it easy to access the best in skin cancer care. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about your treatment options for basal cell carcinoma.