Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for approximately 75-80% of all skin cancers. In Israel, the incidence rate is approximately 188 cases per 100,000 residents per year - one of the highest globally due to the country's high UV index. BCC develops in the basal cells of the epidermis, often in sun-exposed areas such as the face, head, and neck. While BCC rarely metastasizes, it can cause significant local tissue destruction if untreated. Early detection and treatment with Mohs surgery offers cure rates of up to 99%.
Symptoms
- Pearly or waxy bump on the skin
- Flat, flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion
- Bleeding or scabbing sore that heals and returns
- Pinkish patch of skin that may be slightly elevated
- A sore that won't heal or keeps recurring
Treatment Options
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery - gold standard, 99% cure rate
- Standard surgical excision
- Curettage and electrodesiccation
- Topical medications for superficial BCC
- Cryotherapy for small, low-risk lesions
Why Mohs Surgery?
Mohs surgery is particularly recommended for BCC on the face, head, and neck where tissue preservation is critical for optimal cosmetic outcomes. With a cure rate of up to 99%, it offers the highest success rate of any treatment method.
Learn about Mohs SurgeryTreatment Comparison
| Method | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Mohs Surgery | Layer-by-layer removal with real-time microscopic margin examination. Highest precision. | Face, head, neck, recurrent tumors, aggressive subtypes |
| Standard Excision | Surgical removal with predetermined safety margins (4-6mm). Tissue sent for pathology. | Low-risk BCC on the trunk or limbs |
| Curettage & Electrodesiccation | Scraping followed by cauterization. Quick office procedure. | Small, superficial BCC in low-risk locations |
| Topical Therapy (Imiquimod/5-FU) | Cream applied at home over several weeks. Non-surgical option. | Superficial BCC when surgery is not preferred |
| Cryotherapy | Freezing with liquid nitrogen. Quick, no stitches required. | Very small, low-risk superficial BCC |
| Radiation Therapy | External beam radiation delivered over multiple sessions. | Patients who cannot undergo surgery |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Read more →This medical content was reviewed and verified by Dr. Yehonatan Kaplan on April 8, 2026