3–85 Basal cell carcin/oma is a skin cancer of the basal cell layer (deepest layer) of
the epidermis. Metastasis is rare, but local invasion destroys underlying and adjacent
tissue. This condition occurs most commonly on areas of the skin exposed to the sun.
(See Fig. 3–4.)
A type of skin cancer that affects the deepest layer of the epidermis is called basal cell____________________ / __________.3–86 Squamous cell carcin/oma is a skin cancer of the squamous cells (top layer)
of the epidermis. It is an invasive tumor with potential for metastasis and occurs
most commonly in fair-skinned white men over age 60. Repeated overexposure to
the sun’s ultraviolet rays greatly increases the risk of squamous cell carcin/oma.
(See Fig. 3–5.)
A carcin/oma that affects the top layer of the epidermis is called squamous cell
____________________ / __________.Frame 3–79to Frame 3–86Skin and Accessory Organs • CHAPTER 3 81carcin/oma
kăr-sĭ-NŌ-măcarcin/oma
kăr-sĭ-NŌ-măFigure 3-4 Basal cell carcinoma. (A)Pearly, flesh-colored papule with depressed center and
rolled edge. (B)Common sites of basal cell carcinoma. From Goldsmith, Lazarus, and Tharp: Adult
and Pediatric Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and Treatment. F. A. Davis, Philadelphia, 1997, p
157, with permission.
Figure 3-5 Squamous cell carcinoma, in which the surface
is fragile and bleeds easily. From Goldsmith, Lazarus, and Tharp:
Adult and Pediatric Dermatology: A Color Guide to Diagnosis and
Treatment. F. A. Davis, Philadelphia, 1997, p 237, with permission.