Correlation of clinical, dermoscopic, and histopathological features of basal cell carcinoma

Abstract

Background and Design: The aim of this study is to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) by comparing clinical, dermoscopic, and pathological features. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included patients from the dermatology clinic between 2012 and 2015 with 111 BCC lesions. Results: The average age for aggressive-type BCC patients was higher. Aggressive-type BCCs were more common on the face. Dermoscopic, gray-blue ovoid nests were more common on the trunk. Pigmented dots were less common on the face, while globules were more frequent on the scalp. Small erosions were more prevalent on the extremities, while shiny white-red structureless areas were more common on the trunk and extremities. Dot vessels were more prevalent on the scalp. Vascular features were more common on the face, whereas pigmented characteristics were less common. Other dermoscopic features were more common on the face and trunk. Arborizing vessels, ulcerations, white crystals, and hairpin vessels were more common in nodular lesions. Other dermoscopic features were more prevalent in nodular lesions. Mixed-type BCCs had more gray-blue ovoid nests and globules, while single-type BCCs had more small erosions. Vascular features were more common in mixed-type BCCs. Ulceration was more common in aggressive BCCs, while small erosions were more prevalent in nonaggressive BCCs. Histopathologically, pigmented BCCs were more common on the scalp and trunk than on the face. Superficial BCCs were more common in trunks and flat lesions. Adenoid BCC was more prevalent in nodular lesions. Scalp mixed-type BCCs were more common and aggressive. Mixed-type BCCs had a higher number of subtypes, including pigmented, infiltrative, adenoid, micronodular, and solid BCCs. Cystic degeneration was more common in mixed-type BCCs. Conclusion: Clinical-pathological correlations and dermoscopic findings improve our understanding of BCC, aiding in accurate diagnosis and management.