DefinePK

Abstract

Background:  Basal cell carcinoma is the common type of skin malignancies. The global annual incidence is 2.75 million cases. Ultraviolet light is one of the main risk factors. Basal cell carcinoma appears in multiple clinical and microscopic presentations and could affect any site. The head region is reported as a common area involved. Surgical intervention is the most common approach for treatment.
Objective:  The objective of this study is to assess the demographic and clinicopathological characteristics of head basal cell carcinoma cases.
Methods:  Pathological reports were reviewed to confirming diagnoses of Basal cell carcinoma in the head region from 2013 to 2023 at Al-Wasity Teaching Hospital, Iraq. From each report, clinicopathological features were recorded. The microscope slides of each case were examined to verify the diagnosis.
Results:  The total cases were 209 (Female: 108 and male: 98) with no significant difference between both sexes. 56.5 years was the mean age. Half of the cases were found in patients aged between 50 and 70 years. The nose appeared on the top site involved. The nodular subtype accounted for 77% of the cases.
Conclusion:  Basal cell carcinoma incidence did not differ between males and females, and increasing age was associated with the risk of developing the cancer. The nasal area was the most common site affected. The nodular subtype was the most prevalent subtype, which leads to a prediction of a good prognosis after treatment. A large survey covering all Iraqi governorates is needed to highlight the incidence, prevalence of basal cell carcinoma.