Skin Cancer

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC or Rodent Ulcer) is the most common form of skin cancer. Over 50,000 new cases of BCC are reported each year in the U.K.

Fortunately, it is a very slow growing form of skin cancer and very rarely spreads to other areas or organs in the body.

Untreated, BCC’s can disfigure, especially on the face - therefore early recognition and treatment are important.

BCC’s are caused by long term intermittent exposure to sunlight and often occur on sun exposed skin, particularly the face, scalp, ears, hands, shoulders and back. White adults population are at greatest risk.

Risk factors include those with a:

• History of sunburn
• Recreational sun exposure
• Outdoor occupations
• Fair skin
• Increasing age (most over the age of 50 years)
• Men

Surgical removal is the main treatment for BCC’s.  Non-surgical options include: 

• Cryosurgery (freezing the skin)
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy cream, such as 5-fluorouracil

Treatment is usually carried out on an outpatient basis, with minimum disruption to your daily routine. All of these treatments aim to cure.

The most appropriate form of treatment depends on size, site and number of BCC’s.

The majority of skin cancers can be removed in 10-20 minutes under local anaesthesia as outpatient procedures. 

Larger skin cancers may require reconstruction with skin grafts or moving tissue nearby (flaps).

You will be able to go home on the same day. Most cases you will be able to return to work 1-2 days after surgery and resume light exercise 2 weeks after surgery.

You will be followed up 1-2 weeks after surgery in order to be given the diagnosis (from analysis of the specimen in the laboratory), check the wounds and remove any stitches.

If face-to-face follow-up is not required then may arrange for either a telephone call or video consultation.

Removal of skin lesions are low risk procedures with very few serious complications. However, occasionally patients may experience minor skin infection, delayed healing of wounds and lumpy or sensitive scars. A minority of patients require further treatment such as further surgery or medicinal creams.

About 1 in 3 patients who had one BCC are likely to get others. It is important to check any new lesions with your doctor and examine your skin every 6-12 months for early warning signs.

Sun protection is key to prevent further skin damage:

• Aim to cover up and wear wide-brimmed hats when outdoors to protect the areas most at risk
• High factor sunscreens (Minimum SPF 15+) are vital. Apply them before going out in the sun and re-apply every 2 -3 hours, or more frequently if perspiring or swimming
• Wear 100% UV protective sunglasses as the skin surrounding the eyes is vulnerable to sun damage
• Seek shade between the hours of 1100 - 1500
• Make sure you do not burn and take extra care with children
• Avoid indoor tanning beds