Clinical and histopathological characteristics of extra-facial basal cell carcinoma: Analysis of 35 patients at the Chonbuk National University Hospital in Korea

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) primarily develops in the head and neck region, with 74-83 per cent of BCC occurring in this region. Unfortunately, most published studies on BCC were conducted in Caucasian populations, and analytic data on extra-facial BCC in Asian and Korean patients, in particular, are not readily available. Here, we report on a retrospective analysis of extra-facial BCC in Korean patients. Thirty-five patients (16 men, 19 women) diagnosed with extra-facial BCC at Chonbuk National University Hospital between January 1981 and December 2008 were evaluated. Their average age was 62.3 years and most of the patients (11 of 35, 31%) were in their fifties. The relative tumour density (RTD) was the highest in the genitalia (0.769), followed by the axilla (0.481). Other regions such as the trunk, buttocks and upper and lower extremities exhibited a much lower RTD (average: 0.1). Histopathological examinations showed that 16 tumours were nodular (46%), eight were superficial (23%) and seven were mixed (20%). Additionally, potential predisposing factors were identified in seven cases. In five patients the use of Asian medicine, including acupuncture and herbal medication, was ascertained. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to analyse the clinical and histopathological characteristics of extra-facial BCC in Korean patients. Our results indicate that the incidence of extra-facial BCC is higher in the axilla and genitalia than at other locations, although these sites are frequently overlooked during routine skin examinations.

Solitary plantar basal cell carcinoma

“…The nodular subtype found here is reported to be the most common on extra-facial locations, although various authors have previously reported superficial BCC as the most common subtype in lower extremities. 3 , 7 Our patient also illustrates the typical presentation of plantar BCC: female, sixth decade of life, and absence of a pearly edge and telangiectasias that are characteristic of classical BCC in the head and neck region. 8 …”

“…Non-melanoma skin cancers, mainly basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma, are the most common cancers seen worldwide and represent 40% of all malignancies. 1 - 3 …”

“…Chronic sun exposure is the cause of most of these malignancies, but they also develop on unexposed areas. 2 , 3 …”

A 13-Year Retrospective Study of Basal Cell Carcinoma in a Canadian Dermatology Practice

“…2,3 Arising from the basal layer of the epidermis or the pilosebaceous adnexae, this slow-growing epithelial tumor is strongly linked to exposure from solar ultraviolet radiation (UV). 4 -10 However, the pattern of UV exposure (intermittent or chronic) to the development of BCC is highly debated. 11 -13 Although metastases are rare with a low mortality rate, BCCs can be locally destructive, causing significant morbidity.…”

Pigmented plaque on the thigh: Atypical location of a basal cell carcinoma

“…Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer, usually occurring on sun-exposed areas, such as the head and neck [1]. Chronic sun exposure is the cause of most of its cases but it may also develop on unexposed areas.…”