Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Northbrook & Hinsdale | Illinois Dermatology Institute

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer. It develops when abnormal basal cells grow uncontrollably, most often due to long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun or tanning beds.

At Illinois Dermatology Institute, our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive basal cell carcinoma diagnosis and treatment in Northbrook, Hinsdale, and surrounding areas.

What Is Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing form of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells located in the outer layer of the skin. Although BCC rarely spreads to distant areas of the body, early treatment is important to help prevent local tissue damage and lesion growth.

BCC may appear differently depending on the subtype and location of the lesion.

What Causes Basal Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma is primarily caused by cumulative ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure that damages skin cells over time.

Common risk factors include:

• Chronic sun exposure
• Indoor tanning bed use
• History of frequent sunburns
• Personal or family history of skin cancer
• Weakened immune system

Reducing UV exposure and scheduling routine skin examinations may help support early detection.

Signs & Symptoms of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma may appear as:

• A pearly or shiny bump
• A pink or flesh-colored growth
• A non-healing sore
• A scaly or crusted patch
• A lesion that bleeds easily
• A flat scar-like area
• A slowly enlarging skin growth

Some lesions may become irritated, crusted, or repeatedly bleed over time.

Types of Basal Cell Carcinoma

Our dermatologists diagnose and treat several forms of basal cell carcinoma.

• Nodular Basal Cell Carcinoma: The most common subtype, nodular BCC often appears as a shiny or pearly bump with visible blood vessels. It commonly develops on the face, nose, and other sun-exposed areas.
• Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma: Superficial BCC may appear as a red, scaly, or slightly raised patch that can resemble eczema or irritation. It is often found on the chest, shoulders, or back.
• Morpheaform Basal Cell Carcinoma: This less common subtype may appear as a flat, scar-like lesion with poorly defined borders. Morpheaform BCC can grow deeper into surrounding tissue and may require specialized treatment.
• Pigmented Basal Cell Carcinoma: Pigmented BCC contains darker pigmentation and may resemble melanoma or other pigmented skin lesions.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options

Treatment recommendations depend on the size, depth, subtype, and location of the lesion.

Skin Cancer Evaluation & Diagnosis

• Full-Body Skin Exams
  Comprehensive skin evaluations help identify suspicious lesions and signs of early skin cancer.
• Skin Biopsies
  A biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the subtype of basal cell carcinoma.

In-Office Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatments

• Standard Surgical Excision
  Surgical removal is commonly performed to excise the lesion along with a surrounding margin of healthy tissue.
• Mohs Surgery Referrals
  Mohs micrographic surgery may be recommended for facial lesions, recurrent basal cell carcinomas, or lesions with poorly defined borders to maximize tissue preservation.
• Curettage & Electrodessication
  This in-office procedure may be used for select superficial or low-risk lesions by removing abnormal tissue through scraping and controlled electrical treatment.
• Topical Therapy for Superficial Lesions
  Certain superficial basal cell carcinomas may be managed with topical treatment approaches in appropriately selected cases.

Related Services:

Mohs surgery
Excision and Repair

What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Basal Cell Carcinoma?

The most effective basal cell carcinoma treatment depends on the size, location, and subtype of the lesion. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to help minimize tissue damage and improve treatment outcomes.

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Basal Cell Carcinoma?

You should schedule a dermatology evaluation if you notice:

• A non-healing sore
• A pearly or shiny skin growth
• A lesion that repeatedly bleeds or crusts
• A persistent scaly patch
• A changing or enlarging skin lesion

Routine skin exams are especially important for individuals with a history of significant sun exposure or previous skin cancer.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Northbrook & Hinsdale

Illinois Dermatology Institute provides basal cell carcinoma screening and treatment at multiple convenient locations, including:

• Northbrook
• Hinsdale

Our dermatology team offers comprehensive skin cancer care focused on early diagnosis, treatment, and long-term skin health monitoring.

Basal Cell Carcinoma Specialists

Our board-certified dermatologists diagnose and treat basal cell carcinoma using individualized treatment plans focused on early detection, lesion removal, and long-term skin cancer monitoring.

Book a Basal Cell Carcinoma Consultation

If you notice a changing skin lesion, non-healing sore, or signs of skin cancer, our dermatology team can help.

Schedule a basal cell carcinoma consultation at Illinois Dermatology Institute for comprehensive skin evaluation and treatment options.