Final answer:
Basal cell carcinoma mostly appears as a pearly bump, commonly on sun-exposed skin. It rarely metastasizes and has various effective treatments when detected early.
Step-by-step explanation:
Basal cell carcinoma typically presents as a pearly or waxy bump on the skin, most commonly occurring on body parts that receive substantial sun exposure, like the head, neck, and arms. Despite being the most common type of skin cancer, it is known for its rarity to metastasize, making it generally treatable and curable when detected early. Basal cell carcinoma originates in the basal cells of the epidermis, which are part of the stratum basale layer responsible for producing new skin cells.
Exposure to UV radiation is a significant risk factor, though other factors such as radiation, arsenic, and chronic wounds may also contribute to its development. The cancer's growth pattern typically involves starting at the stratum basale and spreading horizontally before growing towards the skin's surface, eventually manifesting as an irregular patch or growth. Due to its superficial nature, treatment options are effective and varied, including surgery, cryosurgery, and topical ointments.