Basal cell carcinomas usually do not cause signs or symptoms until they are fairly large. Since skin cancer is most commonly associated with the sun, exposed areas of the body will most likely have the first indications of the disease. Signs and symptoms of basal cell carcinoma include:

• A skin lesion, growth or bump on the face, lower eyelid, ear, neck, lower lip, chest, back or scalp that appears pearly or waxy. The lesions may be white, pink or flesh colored and may be flat or slightly raised.
  
  
• A lesion that may bleed after a minor injury or does not heal
  
  
• A lesion with a depressed area in its center and/or blue, brown or black areas
  
  
• A lesion with oozing or crusted areas
  
  
• Visible blood vessels in the growth or on the adjacent skin
  
  
• The sudden appearance of a scar-like growth in an area of skin without a history of injury
  
  
• Pain, inflammation, bleeding or itching in an already existing lesion
  

Patients noticing these skin changes, or any changes in color, size, texture or appearance of a skin lesion, are encouraged to contact a dermatologist (a physician specializing in diseases of the skin).

Diagnosis methods for basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is most often diagnosed by a dermatologist. To help determine the nature of the abnormality, the physician will first obtain a medical history. Information will be gathered about sun exposure, use of sunscreens and family history of skin cancer.

Following the medical history, the dermatologist will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s skin. The size, shape and condition of any lesions will be noted and whether they have changed over time. In addition, the physician will examine other parts of the body with particular attention to skin that is exposed to the sun.

Basal cell is first suspected based upon the appearance and symptoms of the lesion. To diagnose the condition, the physician will obtain a sample of skin tissue known as a biopsy. Biopsies can be conducted in a number of ways depending on the type and severity of the suspected area. In some cases, the entire lesion may be removed during the biopsy. The sample obtained in a biopsy is examined under a microscope by a pathologist for the presence of cancer.

Following the diagnosis the dermatologist will determine the necessity of treatment. As with most cancers, early detection is vitally important for the treatment. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the earlier treatment may begin and the better the prognosis.