Summary
Definition
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) of the skin is a common neoplasm, related to exposure to sunlight.
[1]
[Figure caption and citation for the preceding image starts]:
Nodular basal cell carcinoma on the cheek, on background of diffuse solar damage with marked solar elastosis
From the collection of Robert A. Schwartz, MD, MPH, FACP, FAAD
[Citation ends].
BCC has also been known as basal cell epithelioma, reflecting the fact that this neoplasm infrequently metastasises. It can be locally aggressive, but rarely metastasises. While certain factors can result in higher-grade behaviour, in most cases early detection and treatment have made extensive local invasion and destruction from this neoplasm a thing of the past.
[2]
History and exam
Key diagnostic factors
- presence of risk factors
- papules with associated telangiectasias
- plaques, nodules, and tumours with rolled borders
- small crusts and non-healing wounds
- non-healing scabs
- pearly papules and/or plaques
Other diagnostic factors
- metastases associated with large or neglected BCC
- local destruction with advanced lesion
Risk factors
- Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- sun exposure
- x-ray exposure
- arsenic exposure
- xeroderma pigmentosum
- basal cell naevus syndrome (Gorlin-Goltz syndrome)
- transplant patients
Diagnostic investigations
Treatment algorithm
Contributors
Authors VIEW ALL
Professor & Head
Dermatology
Rutgers University New Jersey Medical School
Visiting Professor
Rutgers University School of Public Affairs and Administration
Newark
NJ
Honorary Professor
China Medical University
Shenyang
China
Honorary Professor
Sree Balaji Medical College
Bharath University
Chennai
India
Disclosures
RAS is an author of a number of references cited in this monograph.
Professor Robert A. Schwartz would like to gratefully acknowledge Dr James R. DeBloom and Dr Drazen Jukic, the previous contributors to this monograph. JRD and DJ declare that they have no competing interests.
Peer reviewers VIEW ALL
Consultant Dermatologist
Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
London
UK
Disclosures
RB declares that he has no competing interests.
Assistant Professor
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
University of California
Los Angeles
CA
Disclosures
DC declares that he has no competing interests.
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