Basal Cell Carcinoma
Pronunciation: BAY-zul sel kar-sih-NOH-muh
The most common form of skin cancer, arising from basal keratinocytes in the epidermis, with characteristic slow growth and rare metastasis.
Full Definition
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) originates from the basal layer of the epidermis and is strongly associated with cumulative UV radiation exposure. Subtypes—nodular, superficial, morphoeic (sclerosing), and infiltrative—carry different clinical and prognostic significance and must be transcribed exactly from histopathology reports. BCC rarely metastasises but can cause significant local tissue destruction if neglected. Editors working on skin cancer MDT (multidisciplinary team) minutes, histopathology reports, and excision notes should ensure the subtype qualifier is preserved. 'BCC' is the accepted abbreviation and should be expanded at first use in all formal documents.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as 'BCC' after first full use. Preserve histological subtype (nodular, superficial, morphoeic, infiltrative) exactly as stated in source documents; subtypes are clinically significant.
In Context
- "The histopathology report confirmed a nodular basal cell carcinoma (BCC) with 1 mm peripheral margins." — Histopathology report
- "Editors should retain the subtype descriptor (e.g., 'morphoeic BCC') as it affects management pathway documentation." — Editorial guideline