Skin Cancer: Back to Basics: Basal Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer in the United States, with an estimated 4.3 million cases diagnosed each year. The major risk for BCC is primarily related to sun exposure; however, multiple modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors contribute to the development of this condition. Although it rarely metastasizes, BCC can cause significant morbidity through local tissue destruction and infiltration into vital underlying organs. There are multiple treatment options for BCC, but Mohs micrographic surgery is considered to be the gold standard of therapy. For individuals with unresectable or metastatic BCC, new and emerging therapies involving inhibition of the Hedgehog signaling pathway have shown promising results. This article discusses the most current literature for dermatology nurses on the epidemiology, assessment, and treatment of BCC with the focus on early detection and management to lower morbidity and offer better patient outcomes.