BACKGROUND Multiple studies have reported on dermoscopic structures in basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and its subtypes, with varying results. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the prevalence of dermoscopic structures in BCC… Click to show full abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple studies have reported on dermoscopic structures in basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and its subtypes, with varying results. OBJECTIVE To systematically review the prevalence of dermoscopic structures in BCC and its subtypes. METHODS Databases and reference lists were searched for relevant trials according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies were assessed for the relative proportion of BCC dermoscopic features. Random effects models were used to estimate summary effect sizes. RESULTS 31 studies, consisting of 5,950 BCCs, were included. The most common dermoscopic feature seen in BCC were arborizing vessels (59%), shiny white structures (49%) and large blue-grey ovoid nests (34%). Arborizing vessels, ulceration and blue-grey ovoid nests and globules were most common in nodular BCC; short-fine telangiectasia, multiple small erosions and leaf-like, spoke wheel and concentric structures in superficial BCC; porcelain white areas and arborizing vessels in morpheaform BCC; and arborizing vessels and ulceration in infiltrative BCC. LIMITATION Studies had significant heterogeneity; studies reporting on BCC histopathologic subtypes did not provide clinical data on pigmentation of lesions. CONCLUSION In addition to arborizing vessels, shiny white structures are a common feature of BCC. A constellation of dermoscopic feature may aid in differentiating between BCC histopathologic subtypes.
               
Click one of the above tabs to view related content.