Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), or rodent ulcer, on the nose of a patient with basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS). BCNS, also known as Gorlin syndrome, is an inherited cancer syndrome. It increases the risk of developing a number of benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumours, with the most common being multiple BCCs. BCC is a common form of skin cancer that is thought to be caused by the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. It slowly destroys surrounding tissue, but seldom spreads to other parts of the body. Individuals with BCNS should have their skin checked regularly for new lesions.