Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, most commonly occurring in sun-exposed areas such as the head, neck, shoulder, and arms. This slow-growing skin cancer starts as a red or shiny bump on the skin. A small ulceration resembling a small crater commonly appears in the center. Patients frequently note that it looks like a pimple or ingrown hair that does not go away. Many basal cell carcinomas on the face bleed easily. This type of skin cancer rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but can cause local destruction of healthy tissue. Regular skin exams by a dermatologist allows for newly appearing and likely smaller basal cell carcinomas. Basal cell carcinoma is easily treated and cured.