What are the symptoms of basal cell carcinoma?

A basal cell carcinoma often develops on sun-exposed skin such as the face, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders, or hands, but it can occur elsewhere. It may be a shiny or translucent bump with small visible blood vessels, a pink or reddish area, or a brown, blue, or black-looking lesion. Some lesions resemble a scar or a patch of eczema. A sore may heal temporarily and then reopen, bleed after minor contact, or form a recurring crust. The change may grow slowly and may not be painful, so absence of discomfort does not rule it out. A [Skin Lump](/symptoms/skin-lumps/) or [Skin Ulcer](/symptoms/skin-ulcer/) has many possible causes; appearance alone cannot confirm cancer.

Take a clear photograph and note when the change began, whether it has altered, and whether it bleeds or crusts. Arrange a dermatology assessment for a new or changing lesion, especially one that does not heal. The clinician may examine it closely and recommend a biopsy if needed. Treatment depends on the lesion's size, position, depth, and previous treatment. Options can include surgical removal, Mohs surgery, topical imiquimod, photodynamic therapy, or radiotherapy. Read about [Mohs Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/mohs-surgery/) and [Imiquimod Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/imiquimod-therapy/). Protect exposed skin from ultraviolet light with shade, clothing, and suitable sunscreen.

Book an appointment promptly for a sore that repeatedly bleeds, crusts, or reopens; a shiny bump that keeps enlarging; or a patch that changes in colour, texture, or outline. Seek faster assessment for a lesion near the eye, nose, lip, or ear, where growth can affect nearby structures. Heavy bleeding, severe pain, sudden swelling, or signs of infection need urgent medical attention. A suspicious lesion is not diagnosed from a photograph alone, so arrange an examination even if it seems small.

Could this lesion need a biopsy? Which treatment suits its location and depth? How much skin might be removed? What signs should prompt an earlier review? How should I protect the area while it heals?