Disease Information

What is superficial basal cell carcinoma?

Superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, but it is readily treatable if identified and treated early. A sBCC lesion may appear as a new growth on the skin, as an open sore that fails to heal, or as a change in appearance of an old growth on the skin. These lesions are usually not painful and may have different shapes and colors. Skin changes to look for include the following:

  • A small, smooth, shiny lump that may be pale
    or waxy
  • A firm, red lump
  • A sore or lump that bleeds or is covered by a scab
  • A red or brown patch that is rough or scaly and may itch or become tender

Because sBCC lesions vary widely in appearance, you should ask your doctor to check any suspicious spots. You may be referred to a dermatologist, a doctor who is specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of skin problems.

The most common cause of sBCC
is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light,
a component of sunlight.

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The vast majority of sBCC cases
are not serious and can be easily
treated if detected early.

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Aldara Cream is a skin-use only (topical) prescription medicine used to treat superficial basal cell carcinoma in adults with normal immune systems. It is used when surgical methods of removing the carcinoma are less appropriate. This skin cancer needs to be diagnosed by your healthcare provider.

Safety Information:

When using Aldara Cream, the most common side effects involve skin reactions in the application area. These include redness, swelling, a sore, blisters, or ulcers, skin that becomes hard or thickened, skin peeling, scabbing and crusting, itching, burning, and changes in skin color that do not always go away.

When using Aldara Cream for actinic keratosis and superficial basal cell carcinoma, exposure to sunlight (including sunlamps) should be avoided or minimized during use of Aldara Cream because of concern of heightened sunburn susceptibility. Patients should be warned to use protective clothing (hat) when using Aldara Cream.