[Basal cell carcinoma and mast cells]

The histology of 17 cases of basal cell carcinoma and dermis next to the carcinoma was observed. The results showed that the mast cell number was markedly increased in the dermis near the basal cell carcinoma. There was an increase in the collagen fibers between the carcinoma and dermis tissues, forming a thin membrane around the carcinoma tissue. These findings suggest that the carcinoma-associated antigen may activate the lymphocytes to produce certain lymphokine which stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of the mast cell precursors. Histamine and other active mediators released from mast cells stimulate fibroblasts to synthesize collagen fibers which form a thin membrane between the carcinoma and dermis. The membrane plays a protective role against tumor dissemination.