Basal cell carcinoma

Question 1

Basal cell carcinoma

Answer 1

• one of three main types of skin cancer
• characterised by slow-growth and local invasion
• metastases are rare
• BCC most common cancer in western world

Question 2

Features of basal cell carcinomas

Answer 2

• sun exposed sites (especially head, face, neck)
• pearly, flesh-coloured papule with telangiectasia
• may later ulcerate leaving a central ‘crater’

Question 3

Managment of basal cell carcinomas

Answer 3

• surgery
• curettage
• cryotherapy
• topical cream (imiquimod, fluorouracil)
• radiotherapy