Basal cell carcinoma and melanoma: what to know

Basal cell carcinoma begins in basal cells and often grows locally. Melanoma begins in pigment-producing melanocytes and can spread to other parts of the body. Early assessment matters for both.

A basal cell carcinoma may look like a pearly or shiny bump, a sore that repeatedly crusts or bleeds, or a flat scar-like patch. Melanoma may appear as a new pigmented lesion or as an existing mole that changes in shape, colour, size, or behaviour. Neither condition can be confirmed from a photograph or description alone.

Long-term ultraviolet exposure contributes to both, although either cancer can occur on skin that is not regularly exposed to the sun. A dermatologist may use a magnifying instrument called a dermatoscope and, when needed, remove a sample for laboratory examination.

Arrange a skin assessment if a lesion is new, changing, persistently crusted, or not healing. Note when you first saw it and any change in colour, border, thickness, sensation, bleeding, or discharge. A clear photograph with the date can help show change, but it does not replace examination.

Treatment follows the confirmed diagnosis, location, depth, and other clinical features. Options for selected basal cell carcinomas may include surgical excision, Mohs surgery, imiquimod, photodynamic therapy, or radiotherapy. Melanoma care generally begins with surgical removal and may require further assessment based on the laboratory findings.

Book a prompt appointment for a spot that changes noticeably, grows quickly, bleeds without a clear injury, repeatedly breaks down, develops several colours, or looks unlike your other marks. Also seek assessment for a wound that does not heal or a new firm skin lump.

If a lesion causes heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, seek urgent medical care. Do not cut, burn, freeze, or treat a suspicious lesion with unprescribed products because this can injure the skin and delay diagnosis.

Ask whether the whole lesion or only a sample should be removed, how the diagnosis will be confirmed, and when results may be available. If cancer is found, ask what the laboratory report says about its type and extent, why the proposed treatment fits its location, and what follow-up skin checks are appropriate.