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Dermoscopic features of basal cell carcinoma bear varying diagnostic weight

In a prospective study of dermoscopic features of basal cell carcinoma, researchers found that the most reliable features were telangiectatic vessels and multiple small erosions.

The researchers examined a sample of 151 histopathologically verified  basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) from 116 patients. Standard formulas were used to calculate the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of various dermoscopic features.

Tumors with the highest diagnostic value for BCC had spoke-wheel areas, short fine telangiectasias, white rosette, annular hyperpigmentation, multiple erosions and ulceration.

Mirjana Popadic

Sharply focused, superficial, typical telangiectatic vessels were found to be the most reliable diagnostic feature for BCC, whereas spoke-wheel areas — although rare — were the most specific feature for diagnosing pigmented BCCs.

Other dermoscopic features that were evaluated but did not have a high importance for diagnosis of BCCs included white shiny structures, areas of depigmentation and some dermoscopic features characteristic of melanocytic lesions, according to the researchers.

Disclosure: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.