Linear basal cell carcinoma: a distinct condition?

Linear basal cell carcinoma (BCC) was first reported as a distinct condition in 1985. Having managed two cases recently, we reviewed the published literature on this condition. The aim of the study was to review all reported cases in the literature and summarize the demographic data, histological and clinical features, and treatment methods used. We conducted a literature search from 1985 to 2008 for all published articles on linear BCC [PubMed (National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, MD, USA)] using the keywords 'linear' and 'basal cell carcinoma'. In total, 37 cases of linear BCC in 15 papers were reviewed. There was an equal male : female ratio in the cases. The periocular skin and the neck were the sites most frequently involved. Although the nodular pattern was the commonest histological feature reported, there was a relatively high percentage of infiltrative and morphoeic subtypes. Mohs micrographic surgery was the most frequently used method of treatment. A history of preceding trauma, surgery or radiotherapy was described in only 18% of the reported cases. Linear BCC is a rare variant of BCC with distinct morphological and histological features, which have led some authors to regard it as a separate condition.