Basal Cell Carcinoma

American Family Physician,  Feb 15, 1999  by M.D. Walling, Anne D.

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(Great Britain -- The Practitioner, October 1998, p. 718.) Basal cell carcinoma, or "rodent ulcer," is the most common malignant skin lesion. Sun exposure is the predominant etiologic factor, but previous irradiation, local trauma and the ingestion of arsenic have also been implicated.

Basal cell carcinoma usually begins as a translucent pearly papule with telangiectatic vessels on the surface. The most common site is the face, but basal cell carcinoma may occur on any part of the body and may be missed if situated behind the ear. The lesion grows very slowly and usually develops central ulceration. Metastasis rarely occurs. Treatment of basal cell carcinoma usually consists of local excision, but radiotherapy also works well.

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