Superficial epithelioma of the covered parts of the body.

In individuals with primary cutaneous epithelioma there may be a widespread predisposition of the basal cell layer of the epidermis toward the production of growths of this type. The differential diagnosis usually can be made on clinical characteristics, but in some instances differentiation is difficult and a correct diagnosis may be reached only by microscopic examination of the tissue. The radioresistance of this type of epithelioma is emphasized and the selection of the proper method of treatment is discussed. Consideration of the factors of (1) size and location of the lesion, (2) age, and (3) general condition of the patient may result in a decision that, in some cases, no treatment is indicated. Biochemical, cytological and pathological studies of basal cell epithelioma might lead to a clearer understanding of the nature of epitheliomas in general.