As our largest organ, the skin is the first line of defence against invading infection and disease. Skin health is a great indicator of overall health, and it’s natural to want to keep up appearances in today’s world. Perceived physical imperfections aren’t generally tolerated anymore, and dermatologists possess a remarkable skill-set to help patients look their best. However, skin can also become damaged or change unexpectedly in lots of ways that require monitoring and treatment. Among skin problems, cancer is most feared even when the lesion is non-melanoma skin cancer.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), although relatively common, are localised tumours that can be treated effectively. This doesn’t mean that benign cancers are attractive to look at though and most people choose to have them removed. After all, a benign tumour can continually grow, although it rarely spreads to other parts of the body.

Differences Between BCC and SCC

Understanding conditions like squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a key part of proactive skin health management. Non-melanoma skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are common and have several treatment options available.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

The epidermis (outer layer) of skin is itself comprised of several layers. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) develops when basal cells in the lower epidermis experience unnatural growth, often manifesting externally as a tumour. Approximately 80 % of all skin cancers arise from basal cells, often due to sun damage earlier in life. Basal cell carcinomas are notably slow growing and very rarely spread to other areas of the body.

While it is generally slow-growing, basal cell carcinoma BCC treatment should be guided by a dermatologist to reduce the risk of further spread.

• Most frequently occurring type of skin cancer
• Often develops on sun-exposed areas such as the face and neck
• May present as:
  • A pearly or waxy bump;
  • A flat, flesh-coloured or brown scar-like lesion; or
  • A sore that bleeds, scabs, heals, and returns.

Together, Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) and Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), are grouped as non-melanoma skin cancers to distinguish them from melanoma. Most non-melanoma skin cancers can be relatively easily treated by surgical removal. In cases where the non-melanoma cancer is superficial, cryosurgery,laser surgery and cauterisation (burning) can be used to remove the growth.

Non-Melanoma skin cancer risk factors

Just because something has the potential to cause cancer, it doesn’t mean it will. Risk factors can indicate a greater chance of skin damage and potential for cancer, but many people with risk factors never suffer from the disease. Regardless, becoming informed about risk factors can help people make appropriate lifestyle and health choices. Apart from sun damage, there are several other risk factors worth considering.

Risk factors may include:

• Fair skin – It’s well understood by dermatologists that fair skin, freckles, red hair, blonde hair and blue eyes are indicative of people with less sun tolerance and greater potential to suffer from burning, scarring or skin cancer.
• Artificial tanning – Sun lamps and tanning beds are acknowledged as causing increased risk of skin cancer development.
• Prevailing skin conditions – People suffer from all types of skin conditions and some of them, such as actinic keratoses and Bowen’s disease can change to become squamous cell cancers.
• Age – The majority of people who develop BCC or SCC are over fifty years old. Age is no barrier however, and skin cancer can strike anyone at any time.
• Gender – As lifestyles have changed, so has the potential for skin damage in some cases. The incidence of skin cancer in younger women has increased in recent years, to some degree reflecting fashion choices and a desire to appear tanned.
• History – Skin that has been previously damaged has a greater chance of becoming cancerous. In addition, people who have already experienced skin cancer are more likely than others of developing another skin cancer.

Treatments Available

A range of treatment options exists for non-melanoma skin cancers. These can include topical creams, cryotherapy (freezing), and surgical procedures such as excision or Mohs surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the cancer.

Other conditions that are conducive to skin cancer growth include inherited syndromes, weakened immune systems and adverse reactions to medications. In every case, preventative measures are the best way to avoid the onset of skin cancer. Simple guidelines should include avoidance of too much sun exposure along with other steps that keep skin protected with sunscreen application and healthy.

Book an Appointment with Us

A consultation with a qualified professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and a suitable management plan. Pymble Dermatology has the experience and resources required to fight skin cancer at every stage of growth – with life-changing results. In its natural state, your skin can remain a remarkable barrier against disease for many years to come.

If you have concerns about squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) or basal cell carcinoma, we encourage you to book a consultation. Our dermatologists can provide an assessment and discuss appropriate treatment options.