Basal cell epithelioma
A slow-growing, destructive skin tumor, basal cell epithelioma or carcinoma usually occurs in persons older than age 40; it’s more prevalent in blond, fair-skinned males and is the most common malignant tumor affecting whites.
Causes
Prolonged sun exposure is the most common cause of basal cell epithelioma, but arsenic ingestion, radiation exposure, burns, immunosuppression and, rarely, vaccinations are other possible causes.
Changes in epidermal basal cells can diminish maturation and normal keratinization. Continuing division of basal cells leads to mass formation.
Signs and symptoms
There are three types of basal cell epithelioma:
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Nodulo-ulcerative lesions occur most commonly on the face, particularly the forehead, eyelid margins, and nasolabial folds. In early stages, these lesions are small, smooth, pinkish, and translucent papules. Telangiectatic vessels cross the surface, and the lesions are occasionally pigmented. As the lesions enlarge, their centers become depressed and their borders become firm and elevated. Ulceration and local invasion eventually occur. These ulcerated tumors, known as rodent ulcers, rarely metastasize; however, if untreated, they can spread to vital areas and become infected. If they invade large blood vessels, they can cause massive hemorrhage.
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Superficial basal cell epitheliomas
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