Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of cancer and has a high incidence in New Zealand and Australia. BCC's typically occur as a result of sun exposure over the years, or repeated episodes of sunburn.

Genetic factors such as skin type, and rare inherited conditions can predispose people to BCC's. These tumours are typically slow growing and do not spread elsewhere in the body.

The main types are:

• Nodular BCC – have a rolled edge and small blood vessels on the surface
• Superficial BCC – have a more red flat appearance
• Morpheic BCC – more ill-defined, more difficult to diagnose (may appear like a scar) and have a tendency to recur

Treatment of BCC's usually involves excision, and depending on the size and location, may require skin graft or flap reconstruction.