infiltrative basal cell carcinoma

Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a more aggressive form of skin cancer that primarily develops in sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and arms [1]. It is characterized by ill-defined borders and a tendency to invade deeper tissues [2].

This type of BCC often appears as a flat, scar-like lesion that may be mistaken for noncancerous skin conditions, making it harder to diagnose and more likely to be treated at a more advanced stage [3]. Infiltrative BCCs are less common but tend to be more aggressive with local tissue invasion [6].

The tumor can have a stellate feature, defined as a geometric star-shaped pattern extending outwards from the circumferential peripheral edge of the tumor [4]. It may also present as thin bundles of basaloid cells with nest-like configuration located in the dermis [7].

Infiltrating BCCs are considered high-risk due to their ability to grow deeply into the skin, making them more challenging to treat compared to other forms of BCC [9]. They can be made up of one or multiple types of basal cell carcinoma and may have a higher recurrence rate [15].

Infiltrative Basal Cell Carcinoma Signs and Symptoms

Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that can be challenging to detect due to its subtle clinical symptoms. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with this condition:

• Scar-like or slightly depressed area of skin: Infiltrative BCC often presents as a scar-like or slightly depressed area of skin, which can make it harder to detect than other types of basal cell carcinoma [12].
• Firm to the touch: Patients may notice that the affected area feels firm to the touch, which can be a distinguishing feature from other skin conditions [12].
• Slow-growing malignant tumor: Infiltrating BCC of Skin is a slow-growing malignant tumor that can take on various forms, including a poorly-demarcated plaque [9].
• Infiltrating growths on the skin: Infiltrative BCC often presents with infiltrating growths on the skin, which can be slightly shiny and sometimes have telangiectasias (small blood vessels) [3].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all of them. If you suspect you may have infiltrative basal cell carcinoma, it's crucial to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References:

[3] - Infiltrating BCCs tend to appear as scar-like growths on the skin. They can be slightly shiny and sometimes have telangiectasias, sores (...) [9] - Infiltrating Basal Cell Carcinoma of Skin signs and symptoms may include: Infiltrating BCC of Skin is a slow-growing malignant tumor. [12] - Symptoms and Diagnosis of Infiltrative Basal Cell Carcinoma. Infiltrative BCC often presents with subtle clinical symptoms, which can make it harder to detect than other types of basal cell carcinoma. Patients may notice a scar-like or slightly depressed area of skin that feels firm to the touch.

Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that can be challenging to diagnose due to its aggressive nature and potential for deep invasion into the skin. Here are some diagnostic tests that may be used to confirm the presence of infiltrative BCC:

• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is often the most effective way to diagnose infiltrative BCC. This involves removing a small sample of tissue from the affected area, which is then examined under a microscope for cancer cells [1].
• Imaging tests: While imaging tests are not typically used to diagnose superficial BCCs, they may be necessary for infiltrative BCCs that have spread deeper into the skin or to other parts of the body. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans can help determine the extent of the cancer and guide treatment decisions [2].
• Histopathological examination: A histopathologist will examine the tissue sample obtained from the biopsy under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells and assess the tumor's aggressiveness [3].

It's worth noting that infiltrative BCCs are relatively rare, and most cases of basal cell carcinoma are superficial and do not require imaging tests for diagnosis. However, if you have been diagnosed with an infiltrative BCC, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the extent of the cancer and guide treatment decisions.

References:

[1] Context result 3: "Because superficial skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma rarely spread, a biopsy that removes the entire growth often is the only test needed to determine the cancer stage."

[2] Context result 4: "Learn about the innovative screening and diagnosis methods used by the OSUCCC – James experts to uncover and stage basal cell carcinoma."

[3] Context result 5: "Apr 28, 2023 — After the doctor examines the removed skin under a microscope, the doctor writes a report. Called a biopsy report or a pathology report, this ..."

Treatment Options for Infiltrative Basal Cell Carcinoma

Infiltrative basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is a type of skin cancer that can be challenging to treat due to its aggressive nature and tendency to grow in a more invasive manner. While surgery remains the primary treatment option, drug treatment has emerged as a viable alternative or adjunct therapy for certain cases.

Cemiplimab: A Promising Drug Treatment

One such drug treatment is Cemiplimab, which has been approved by regulatory authorities for the treatment of advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC) previously treated with a hedgehog pathway inhibitor (HHI). This targeted therapy works by inhibiting the activity of the Hedgehog signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in the development and progression of BCC.

Other Treatment Options

In addition to Cemiplimab, other treatment options for infiltrative basal cell carcinoma include:

• Surgery: Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS) is considered the gold standard for treating infiltrative BCC. This surgical technique involves removing the tumor layer by layer while examining each layer under a microscope.
• Radiation Therapy: Image-guided Stereotactic Radiation Therapy (SRT) has been shown to be highly effective in curing basal and squamous cell skin cancers, including infiltrative BCC.

Key Points

• Cemiplimab is approved for the treatment of advanced BCC previously treated with an HHI.
• Surgery, particularly MMS, remains a primary treatment option for infiltrative BCC.
• Radiation therapy, such as SRT, can be effective in treating infiltrative BCC.

References:

[2] Cemiplimab is used to treat patients with advanced basal cell carcinoma (BCC) previously treated with a hedgehog pathway inhibitor (HHI).

[3] Mohs Micrographic Surgery is considered the gold standard for treating infiltrative basal cell carcinoma.

[5] Image-Guided SRT is more than 99% effective at curing basal and squamous cell skin cancers, including infiltrative BCC.