Basal cell carcinoma

Question 1

What is it characterised by

Answer 1

slow-growth and local invasion. Metastases are extremely rare. BCC is the most common type of cancer in the Western world.

Question 2

What is the most common form of BCC

Answer 2

nodular BCC

Question 3

What are the features of BCC

Answer 3

sun-exposed sites, especially the head and neck account for the majority of lesions
initially a pearly, flesh-coloured papule with telangiectasia
may later ulcerate leaving a central ‘crater’

Question 4

How to manage

Answer 4

surgical removal
curettage
cryotherapy
topical cream: imiquimod, fluorouracil
radiotherapy

Question 5

What are the risk factors

Answer 5

Type I or II skin (fair skin which always burns and never or rarely tans)
History of frequent or severe previous sun burn
Outdoor occupation or hobbies
Personal or family history of skin cancer
Immunosuppression
Increasing age
Male sex

Question 6

What is present in superficial BCC

Answer 6

Usually appears as superficial erythematous macule affecting the trunk, can spontaneously regress

Question 7

When does superficial BCC present

Answer 7

Younger

Question 8

How does S bcc grow

Answer 8

Horizontal growth patter predominates
High recurrence rate (due to subclinical lateral spread)

Question 9

hOW DOES CYSTIC BCC present.

Answer 9

Often have clear or blue-grey appearance
Cystic degeneration may not be clinically obvious and tumour may resemble nodular BCC