Basal Cell Carcinoma

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignant tumour of the skin. It is also the most common cancer in humans in some countries. BCC is malignant neoplasm derived from nonkeratinizing cells originating in the basal layer of the epidermis. The histology of the tumour and the surrounding stroma is characteristic. Basal cell carcinoma was first described in 1824 by Jacob who called it "ulcus rodens"; its current nomenclature was proposed by Krompecher in 1903. It is the most common type of nonmelanoma skin cancer (80% of all skin cancers) and most common malignancy in humans. It is delivered from the basal layer of the epidermis or pluripotent bazaloid cells of adnex and almost seen in the areas of sun exposure and hairy parts of the skin. There are many factors in its etiology including genetic predisposition, immune deficiency and chronic sun exposure (Adisen & Gurer, 2007). Recently published studies major on genetic and molecular aspects of the pathogenesis of basal cell carcinoma. Metastasis is rare in BCC and local destruction and disfigurement are much more common (Sikar et al., 2011). BCC usually appears as a flat, firm, pale area that is small, raised, pink or red, translucent, shiny, and waxy, and the area may bleed following minor injury. Tumor size can vary in diameter. Treatment options include electrodesiccation and curettage, surgical excision, cryosurgery, 5-fluorouracil, 5% imiquimod cream, and superficial radiographic therapy. Electrodesiccation and curettage are the most common treatments. Cure rate in these options is approximately 95%. Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome or Gorlin-Goltz syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by multiple basal cell carcinoma, multiple keratocystic tumors, and skeletal anomalies (Bader, 2011).