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Basal Cell Carcinoma or BCC is a condition that affects the cells of the skin in the lowermost layer of the epidermis. If caught early, BCC can be entirely treated without any chances of disfigurement. Here are five clues that your skin will give you which may indicate BCC. 

BCC is one of the most frequently encountered skin carcinomas in the United States with 80% of the total cases being attributed to it. In addition to being the most common type of skin cancer, it is thankfully the least life-threatening of them all too. In fact, BCC is rarely known to proliferate other parts of the body which means that it stays contained in the original cancerous growth. Most people with BCC have a history of extensive exposure to the sun for a prolonged period. In some cases, though, especially in light-skinned people, even occasional sunburns can lead to the development of BCC. 

Early detection of signs that point towards a BCC growth is the best way to avoid damage to the skin and scarring. We have listed the 5 symptoms that you should keep an eye out for in case you belong to the high-risk category for BCC:

1. Sores That Do Not Heal For Long – A festering sore that refuses to close despite being treated with antiseptic ointments can be your first, most vital clue for BCC detection. Such wounds continuously bleed or form crusts.
2. A Portion of The Skin That Appears Inflamed – Sometimes a small area of skin on any exposed body parts like the face or limbs might suddenly turn red and itchy. Even though such a sign does not necessarily mean that you have BCC and could indicate any skin malady like psoriasis, it is still worthwhile to get it investigated by your physician if it persists for long.
3. A Bump That Resembles a Mole – Development of a raised nodule that is slightly larger than a regular mole as well as has a shiny top layer is another indication that you should not miss. In light-skinned people, such a bump usually tends to be in shades of red or even white.
4. A Skin Growth With Curved Borders – A pinkish skin aberration that appears suddenly and has a crusty hollow in the center and a raised boundary all around is also something to be concerned about. If you notice such an abnormality that is slowly expanding and sprouting blood vessels too, then you must get it examined by your physician.
5. A Scar Without A Reason – A skin abnormality that resembles a scar may appear without any underlying reason like an injury or a burn. Such a development usually does not have a defined border, and it may appear smooth and taut.

If you spot any of the skin growths mentioned above, get them checked immediately by your physician. The sooner you detect a BCC tumor, the easier it is to treat as well as avoid injury to the muscular or nervous system. 

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