Carcinoma basocelular

Abstract

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of cancer in humans, and its incidence has been increasing in recent years. Knowledge about its histogenesis and epidemiology has become clearer with research in the field of genetics, molecular biology and epidemiological surveys that have identified risk factors and other forms of prevention. There has been progress in the understanding of its biological behavior, in face of the variety of clinical and histopathological forms. New knowledge has been added to certain aspects, such as recurrent and metastatic basal cell carcinoma. Recognition of the tumor has improved due to the use of techniques that have increased the diagnostic accuracy. New forms of therapy have been described, including photodynamic therapy and use of immunomodulating agents, besides more traditional forms that have been consolidated by clinical experience. The prognostic of BCC has improved considerably in recent decades thanks to more precocious diagnosis, current therapeutic measures, and to a greater awareness among the population regarding the problem as a result of the education campaigns. This revision work offers a detailed approach to each of these aspects, focusing on their practical peculiarities, with the intention of providing a reference source of other studies for the dermatologist.