Basal Cell Carcinoma

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology

Background:

• Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most prevalent cancer globally.
• Early BCC detection is achievable through clinical evaluation, dermoscopy, and advanced imaging like reflectance confocal microscopy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the clinical identification, treatment modalities, and management strategies for basal cell carcinoma.
• To discuss the efficacy of various therapeutic approaches for different BCC risk levels.

Main Methods:

• Clinical assessment and diagnostic imaging (dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy).
• Surgical interventions, including Mohs micrographic surgery.
• Nonsurgical treatments: topical therapies, destructive methods, radiation therapy.
• Systemic treatments for advanced or metastatic BCC, including Hedgehog pathway inhibitors.

Main Results:

• BCC typically follows an indolent course, responding well to local treatments.
• Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest efficacy for high-risk BCC.
• Low-risk BCC may be managed with less invasive, nonsurgical options.
• Radiation therapy is an alternative for surgical non-candidates.
• Systemic agents show variable responses in advanced and metastatic BCC.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of basal cell carcinoma relies on accurate early diagnosis and risk stratification.
• A spectrum of treatment options exists, from local therapies to advanced systemic agents, tailored to tumor characteristics.
• Ongoing research into systemic therapies offers improved outcomes for advanced BCC cases.