Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc- dependent endopeptidase. A characteristic feature of MMPs is the ability of degradation of at least one component of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Degradation of ECM components like collagen proteins, proteoglycans and laminins leads to change in tissue structure, which enables the migration of tumor cells. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the skin. BCC is derived from cells of the basal layer of the epidermis. Basal cell carcinoma is characterized by a slight ability to metastases. BCC is most common in Caucasians and the main cause of this type of tumor is the solar radiation. The aim of this study was to determine the expression of mRNA for MMP-2 and MMP-9 in basal cell carcinoma tissue and bordering healthy skin tissue (control sample). Both, examined and control tissues, were taken from the same patients. Skin tissues were obtained from 15 patients diagnosed as BCC nodularis skin cancer. Using the method of RT-PCR showed signifi cant increase in expression of mRNA for MMP-2 and MMP-9 in tumor tissue compared to non tumor skin tissue. It can be assumed that the molecular study of MMPs expression in skin tissue may be a useful and complementary diagnostics test in histopathologic diagnosis of skin cancer. Diagnostic tests, complemented with molecular markers, may allow for precise definition of the border margin of excised tumor, which is an important prognostic factor.