If untreated, basal cell carcinoma can cause considerable tissue damage and result in disfigurement. Usually, basal cell carcinoma looks like a pearly growth. Sometimes, there's an area that won't heal. The carcinoma may be translucent and gradually grow, or it may look like a sore that won't heal. People who get it have received chronic sun exposure throughout their lives.
Treatment is removal by freezing or surgery.
The AAD estimates that 208,000 Typo.cases of squamous cell carcinoma will be diagnosed this year. But squamous cell carcinoma can spread, and is potentially lethal if left untreated. It looks like a crusty, scaly patch with a hard, callused surface. People who have been exposed to the sun throughout their lives get it. Treatment of squamous cell carcinoma, if caught early, is removal by freezing or surgery.