Can Sun-Damaged Skin Cause Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma begins in basal cells in the outer layer of skin. Long-term ultraviolet exposure is a major contributing factor, particularly on exposed areas such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders and forearms. A history of sun damage raises concern but does not mean that every mark is cancer.

The growth may look like a shiny or pearly bump, a sore that heals and returns, a scaly patch, or a spot that bleeds after minor contact. Some lesions are subtle and can resemble irritation or a scar, which is why examination matters.

Use shade, protective clothing and broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin. Examine your skin regularly so you notice a new mark or a change in an existing one. Do not repeatedly pick, squeeze or treat a suspicious spot with home products, since this can irritate it and delay diagnosis.

A clinician can examine the lesion and may perform a biopsy if the appearance is concerning. If basal cell carcinoma is confirmed, treatment is selected according to its site, size, depth and borders.

Arrange an assessment for a spot that does not heal, repeatedly crusts or bleeds, grows slowly, becomes a persistent sore, or develops a shiny rolled edge. Seek earlier review for a lesion near the eye, nose, ear or lip, or for a mark that changes after previous treatment. These features require examination; they do not establish the diagnosis by themselves.

Ask what features make the mark concerning, whether a biopsy is needed, which treatment fits its location, and how often your skin should be checked afterward.