What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma and How Is It Treated?

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, often caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. While it typically grows slowly and is less likely to spread than other forms of skin cancer, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for the best outcome. At Peters Dermatology Center, LLC in Bend, OR, the team provides expert care to detect and treat BCC, helping patients protect their skin health and overall well-being.

Common Signs and Risk Factors

BCC can appear in different ways, which is why regular skin checks are important. It may look like a small, pearly bump, a flat, flesh-colored patch, or a sore that heals and reopens. People with fair skin, a history of frequent sunburns, or prolonged sun exposure are at greater risk, though anyone can develop this condition. Even areas of the body that receive minimal sun can be affected.

How It Is Diagnosed

If a suspicious lesion is found, the providers at Peters Dermatology Center may recommend a skin biopsy. This simple procedure involves removing a small sample of skin for examination under a microscope. Confirming the diagnosis allows the team to create a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs.

Treatment Options

Several effective treatments are available for BCC, and the choice depends on the size, location, and depth of the lesion. Common options include:

• Surgical excision – Removing the cancerous tissue along with a small margin of healthy skin.
• Mohs surgery – A precise method that removes the cancer layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
• Cryotherapy – Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen to destroy cancer cells.
• Topical medications – Creams or gels that help treat superficial BCCs.

The specialists at Peters Dermatology Center focus on selecting the least invasive yet most effective approach for each patient, with an emphasis on both treatment success and cosmetic results.

The Importance of Prevention

Preventing BCC starts with protecting the skin from harmful UV rays. This includes wearing sunscreen daily, seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, and wearing protective clothing and hats when outdoors. Routine skin checks, both at home and with a dermatologist, are key to catching skin changes early.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 541-323-7546 and connect with Peters Dermatology Center, LLC—a trusted partner in skin health for the Bend community.