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Basal cell carcinoma


Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common human skin cancer, comprising more than half of all non-melanoma skin cancer diagnoses, that affect more than 3 million Americans annually. These evidence-based guidelines for the management of BCC provide the most current information on widely accepted therapies, emerging treatments, staging, biopsy techniques, prevention, and follow-up. Review guideline highlights or download the full guideline below.

Basal cell carcinoma guidelines

Access the full BCC skin cancer guidelines from JAAD (free access)

Go to the guidelines

Guideline highlights

  • Stratification of BCC in accordance with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines is recommended, with the goal of providing the most clinically relevant stratification to guide management of BCC .

  • Optimal biopsy techniques are considered, with the aim of obtaining a biopsy permitting accurate diagnosis and management of BCC .

  • Surgical treatment modalities are reviewed, as surgery remains the cornerstone of BCC treatment .

  • Nonsurgical approaches (topicals, radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy) have lower cure rates than surgical treatment and should only be considered for low-risk BCC or if surgery is contraindicated .

  • As there are limited treatment options for metastatic disease, early and complete treatment is important .

  • Patients diagnosed with BCC should have annual checks for recurrence or other new primary skin cancer(s).

Skin Cancer Resource Center for patients

Are you looking for information on managing and treating your skin cancer? The Academy offers a wealth of skin cancer prevention and treatment information for the public in the Skin Cancer Resource Center.


View the AAD guidelines disclaimer

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