Dermatology

Question 1

Define BCC

Answer 1

• Malignant tumour arising from basal layer of the epidermis
o Commonest form of skin malignancy

Question 2

Aetiology of BCC

Answer 2

•	Main risk factor: Prolonged exposure or UV radiation 
•	Seen in Gorlin syndrome
•	Other Risk factors:
o	Photosensitising pitch 
o	Tar
o	Arsenic
o	Xeroderma Pigmentosum 
Slowly causes local destruction if left untreated `

Question 3

•	A chronic slowly progressive skin lesion 
•	Usually found on sun exposed sites:
o	Face
o	Scalp
o	Ears
o	Trunk

•

Nodular (MOST COMMON)
o Pearly nodule with rolled telangiectatic edge
o Telangiectasis: a localised collection of distended blood capillary vessels – looks like branches of tree
o Slowly enlarges
o May have central ulcer

Morphoeic
o Expanding
o Yellow/white waxy plaque with an ill-defined edge
o More aggressive than nodulo-ulcerative

Superficial
o Most often on trunk or shoulders
o Multiple pink/brown scaly plaques with a raised smooth edge expanding slowly

Pigmented
o Specks of brown or black pigment may be present in any BCC

Answer 3

BCC