- Superficial BCC: Short telangiectasias, spoke-wheel.
- Pigmented nodular: Blue-gray globules, ulceration.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most specific dermoscopic feature for basal cell carcinoma?
Arborizing telangiectasias and large blue-gray ovoid nests are highly specific.
How does dermoscopy differentiate superficial from nodular BCC?
Superficial: Maple leaf/spoke-wheel areas, erosions; Nodular: Arborizing vessels, large ulceration.
Are white structures visible in non-polarized dermoscopy?
No, shiny white lines/clods require polarized light.
Can dermoscopy diagnose BCC on skin of color?
Yes, pigmented features like maple leaf areas (61.7%) predominate.
Table: Comparison of Dermoscopic Features by BCC Subtype
| Feature | Superficial (%) | Nodular (%) | Infiltrative (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maple leaf-like areas | 92.5 | 37.5 | Rare |
| Arborizing vessels | 0 | 37.5 | 76 |
| Ulceration | 7.4 | 84.3 | 44 |
| Short fine telangiectasias | 59.2 | 37.5 | Common |
| Blue-gray ovoid nests | 25.9 | 40.6 | Present |
References
- Dermoscopic features of basal cell carcinoma in skin of color: a retrospective cross-sectional study from Puducherry, South India — Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology. 2023. https://ijdvl.com/dermoscopic-features-of-basal-cell-carcinoma-in-skin-of-color-a-retrospective-cross-sectional-study-from-puducherry-south-india/
- Dermoscopy in Basal Cell Carcinoma: An Updated Review — Actas Dermo-Sifiliográficas. 2021-03-01. https://www.actasdermo.org/en-dermoscopy-in-basal-cell-carcinoma-articulo-S1578219021000275
- Dermoscopy of Basal Cell Carcinoma — DermNet NZ CME Course. 2024. https://dermnetnz.org/cme/dermoscopy-course/dermoscopy-of-basal-cell-carcinoma
- Role of Dermoscopy in the Assessment of Basal Cell Carcinoma — Frontiers in Medicine. 2021-10-12. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2021.718855/full
- Basal cell carcinoma dermoscopy — DermNet NZ. 2024-10. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/basal-cell-carcinoma-dermoscopy
- Basal cell carcinoma — Dermoscopedia. 2024. https://dermoscopedia.org/Basal_cell_carcinoma
Sneha Tete
Health Writer
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with questions about a medical condition.
