Basal cell carcinoma untreated for 2 years

The elapsed time alone cannot reveal the lesion's current extent. Its site, borders, depth, subtype and changes over time all influence what happens next, so an in-person examination is more useful than judging it from duration or appearance alone.

Basal cell carcinoma often grows at its original site. If growth continues, it can ulcerate, bleed and extend into deeper tissue, making removal and reconstruction more involved. Lesions near an eyelid, nose, ear or lip deserve particular attention because a small area contains important functional structures.

A stable-looking surface does not establish what is happening underneath. A clinician may use dermoscopy and usually a biopsy to confirm the type and map a treatment plan. Another skin condition can resemble basal cell carcinoma, so confirmation remains necessary if the original diagnosis was uncertain.

Contact a dermatologist or skin cancer service and explain that the lesion has been present or diagnosed for 2 years. Share any original pathology report, photographs that show change, previous treatment details and a current medicine list.

Do not apply acids, freezing products or unprescribed creams. Once the diagnosis and extent are clear, options may include excision, Mohs surgery or another selected therapy. Choice depends on the tumour rather than the delay alone.

Seek urgent clinical advice if bleeding will not stop with firm pressure, the area develops rapidly increasing redness, heat, swelling or discharge, or pain suddenly worsens. Prompt review is also warranted when growth affects vision, breathing, eating or movement, or when the lesion expands noticeably.

Ask whether a new biopsy or imaging is needed, what the pathology subtype means, which treatment offers appropriate margin control at this site, whether repair will be required and how the area should be monitored afterward.