Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer in Australia — and, caught early, one of the most treatable. This is a plain-English guide to what a BCC looks like, where it appears, and what to do if you have a spot that fits. If you are worried about a specific spot, a doctor can review your photo for $49 and tell you whether it needs an in-person look.
Basal cell carcinomaA pearly bump with central crustingWhat is a basal cell carcinoma?
BCC is a cancer that starts in the basal cells at the bottom of the outer skin layer. It is by far the most common of the three main skin cancers (BCC, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma). BCCs grow slowly and very rarely spread to other parts of the body — which is exactly why catching one early matters: an early BCC often means a smaller, simpler removal and a better cosmetic result, especially on the face.
What does a BCC look like?
BCCs are great mimics and can look like a harmless mark, which is why they are so often ignored. Common appearances include:
- A pearly or shiny bump — skin-coloured, pink or translucent, sometimes with tiny visible blood vessels across it.
- A pink or red patch that does not clear up — may be slightly scaly and is often mistaken for eczema or a dry patch.
- A sore that keeps healing and then breaking down — a spot that scabs, seems to heal, then bleeds or opens again over weeks to months.
- A small ulcer or crater with a rolled, raised edge.
The single most useful warning sign in everyday language: a spot that will not heal.
Where do BCCs usually appear?
Wherever the sun hits most: the face (especially the nose, cheeks and around the eyes), ears, scalp, neck, shoulders and back.
Is a BCC dangerous?
A BCC is very unlikely to be life-threatening because it rarely spreads. But left alone it keeps growing locally and can damage nearby tissue like the nose or ear — turning what could have been a tiny treatment into a much bigger one. Early is easier, for your health and your appearance. It should still be assessed and treated by a doctor.
How to get it checked
If you have a spot that fits the picture above, you do not have to wait weeks to find out whether it is worth acting on. Upload a clear photo and Dr Walia reviews it, using the photographs and information you submit, and provides written next-step advice from the submitted photographs, including when an in-person examination is appropriate — $49 flat, no clinic visit. Related: is my mole skin cancer? · milia vs skin cancer
An online photo review is not a diagnosis and cannot rule skin cancer in or out. For anything that concerns you, or a full skin examination, please see your own GP or a skin-cancer clinic in person.