Basal cell carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma is a type of nonmelanoma skin cancer, and is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Basal cell carcinoma starts in the top layer of the skin called the epidermis. It grows slowly and is painless. A new skin growth that bleeds easily or does not heal well may suggest basal cell carcinoma. The majority of these cancers occur on areas of skin that are regularly exposed to sunlight or other ultraviolet radiation. They may also appear on the scalp.