Skin Cancer & Precancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (Invasive)
WHAT IS IT
A deeper form of the most common skin cancer
HOW COMMON
Common; grows into deeper skin layers
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Yes — high cure rate, best treated early
What Is It?
Invasive (nodular) basal cell carcinoma is a common skin cancer that grows deeper into the skin than the superficial type. It often looks like a shiny or pearly bump, sometimes with visible tiny blood vessels, and it may bleed or form a sore. It rarely spreads to other organs, but it can damage nearby tissue if untreated.
Signs & Symptoms
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A shiny, pearly, or waxy bump
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Visible small blood vessels on the surface
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A sore that bleeds, crusts, and won't heal
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May have a rolled or raised border with a central dip
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Most common on the face, ears, neck, and scalp
Why Does It Happen?
Like other BCCs, it is caused mainly by long-term ultraviolet (UV) damage from the sun or tanning beds. Fair skin, older age, sunburn history, and heavy lifetime sun exposure all raise the risk. Because this type grows deeper, prompt treatment protects surrounding skin. It is NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
Deeper BCC is usually treated with surgery to ensure complete removal. The approach depends on size, location, and how well-defined the borders are.
SURGICAL EXCISION
Cutting out the tumor with a margin of normal skin — a common approach.
MOHS SURGERY
Precise, tissue-sparing surgery with the highest cure rate, ideal for the face.
CURETTAGE & ELECTRODESICCATION
Scrape-and-seal for select small, low-risk lesions.
RADIATION
An option for those who cannot have surgery, or for certain locations.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and reapply
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Wear protective clothing and seek shade at midday
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Do regular skin self-checks; you're at higher risk for more
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Keep all follow-up and full skin-exam appointments
When to Call Your Provider
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The bump grows, bleeds, or forms a non-healing sore
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A new or changing spot appears, especially on the face
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Treated skin becomes very painful, swollen, or infected
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You have not had a recent full-body skin check
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Basal Cell Carcinoma: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common/bcc
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Basal Cell Carcinoma. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/basal-cell-carcinoma/
DermNet. Basal Cell Carcinoma. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma
MSD/Merck Manual. Basal Cell Carcinoma. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/cancers-of-the-skin/basal-cell-carcinoma
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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