Basal cell carcinoma Histology and Explanation

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Basal cell carcinoma is a malignant epithelial tumor arising only in skin, from the basal layer of the epidermis or of the pilosebaceous adnexa. Tumor is represented by compact areas, well delineated and invading the dermis, apparent with no connection with the epidermis. Tumor cells resemble normal basal cells (small, monomorphous) are disposed in palisade at the periphery of the tumor nests, but are spindle-shaped and irregular in the middle. Tumor clusters are separated by a reduced stroma with inflammatory infiltrate

This is a basal cell carcinoma of the lower lip. It has a pearly pinkborder and an ulcerated center. These rarely metastasize, but are slow-growing and progressive over time. Leaving them to get larger just makesthe plastic surgeon's job that much harder, with more disability to thepatient, so early detection and excision is a must. Most basal cellcarcinomas occur in the head and neck area of adults with prolonged sunexposure.

This is a basal cell carcinoma (BCC). A BCC is probably the mostcommon skin malignancy. A BCC can grow quite large and invade, but itvirtually never metastasizes. BCC's around the eye present a challenge tothe surgeon to remove and retain functionality of the eyelid. Therefore: detect BCC's early and treat them when they're small!!


Nests of basaloid cells are dropping off into the upper dermis in thisexample of a basal cell carcinoma of the skin. These neoplasms can bemultifocal. They are slow growing but relentless. The problems theycause are related to local invasion. Metastases are quite rare.