Skin Cancer & Precancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (Superficial)
WHAT IS IT
The most common, least aggressive skin cancer
HOW COMMON
Very common on sun-exposed skin
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Yes — very high cure rate when treated
What Is It?
Superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, in its thinnest form. It grows slowly in the top layer of skin and looks like a pink or red, slightly scaly patch. It very rarely spreads to other parts of the body, and it is highly curable when treated.
Signs & Symptoms
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A pink or red, flat, slightly scaly patch
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May look like eczema or a stubborn dry spot
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Slowly enlarges and does not fully heal
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May be shiny, or have a slightly raised border
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Most common on the trunk, shoulders, and limbs
Why Does It Happen?
BCC is caused mainly by years of ultraviolet (UV) damage from the sun or tanning beds. Over time, UV light damages skin cells and allows abnormal growth. Risk is higher with fair skin, a history of sunburns, older age, and lots of lifetime sun exposure. It is NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
Because it is thin, superficial BCC can often be treated with creams or minor procedures. Your provider chooses based on size, location, and your preferences.
TOPICAL CREAMS
Imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil applied for several weeks to clear the cancer.
CURETTAGE & ELECTRODESICCATION
Scraping and sealing the area — a common quick office procedure.
CRYOTHERAPY / PDT
Freezing or light-activated therapy for select superficial lesions.
SURGICAL EXCISION
Cutting out the lesion with a margin when preferred or needed.
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 spot grows, bleeds, or won't heal
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A new or changing patch appears on sun-exposed skin
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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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